I liked Rise of the Planet of the Apes. A LOT. So I’m certainly thrilled to see Deadline’s report that Andy Serkis, the man that brought Caesar to life, has signed on for another Apes picture. And on top of that, he’s getting a seven figure pay day. The man is worth every penny.
But is he worth seeking Oscar gold? I think so, and I’m quietly rooting for him to win the Best Actor statue this year.* But he won’t get there if 20th Century Fox doesn’t run a good campaign, and it seems his new contract includes some guarantees for a big Oscar push. Will the Academy get with the times and nominate a motion capture performance? If they don’t do it for Serkis, who brought us not just Caesar but also Gollum and King Kong, I don’t think they ever will.
Director Rupert Wyatt is signed on for a sequel, as are screenwriters Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver. They’ve reportedly been kicking around ideas but nothing is set in stone yet. No word on whether James Franco or Freda Pinto will return, but if Fox wants to get the ball rolling quick those details will be announced shortly.
We’ll keep you posted as the story develops.
*Its funny that our own Kale Slade has picked his favorite for Best Actor as well. Oscar season is upon us, and I’m itching to lay down odds.
