Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)

Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011), an American science fiction action film, follows pharmaceutical chemist Will Rodman in San Francisco as he tests the virus-based drug ALZ-112 on chimpanzees at biotechnology company Gen-Sys. His goal is to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. Their test subject, a chimp named Bright Eyes, shows remarkable intelligence after being given the drug. Her newfound intelligence leads her to escape her cage during Will’s presentation and ultimately be killed. Will’s boss, Steven Jacobs, ends the project and orders all chimps to be euthanized. However, Robert Franklin, Will’s assistant, reveals that Bright Eyes had recently given birth – causing her aggression. Despite initial hesitation, Will takes in the infant chimp and names him Caesar.

Noticing that Caesar has inherited his mother’s intelligence due to exposure to ALZ-112, Will takes on the responsibility of raising him. After three years, Caesar’s intelligence has blossomed and he can now communicate through sign language. In the meantime, Will begins a romantic relationship with Caroline Aranha, a primatologist. Together, they take Caesar to explore the redwood forest at Muir Woods National Monument. Will also gives ALZ-112 to his father, Charles, which seems to improve his cognitive abilities. However, after five years, Caesar reaches adulthood and starts questioning his origins and place in the world. Unfortunately, Charles’ immune system becomes resistant to ALZ-112 and his condition returns.