The audio is presented in 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio but the soundtrack understandably doesn’t use it to the fullest. The front speakers got most of the use while the backs were mainly used for immersing the viewer amidst Jerry Goldsmith’s score. The main use of the subwoofer was when Taylor’s ship crashed and during a key point in the third act. Originalists will appreciate having access to the mono track.
The disc is loaded with special features, some of which include previous material from other Apes releases. Multiple commentary tracks feature McDowall, Hunter, Goldsmith, and makeup artist John Chambers, who was awarded an honorary Oscar for his work because makeup didn’t have a category at the time. There is also a text commentary by author Eric Greene. Material from stages of the film’s production include McDowall’s home movies from the set and makeup test footage Edward G. Robinson who almost played Zaius. The 1998 documentary Behind the Planet of the Apes looks at the whole series and now has an interactive feature that offers even more information. New features include “Evolution of the Apes,” which covers the transition from book to screen; “Science of the Apes,” only available to BONUSVIEW-enabled players, has different scientists discussing the film; and a Beyond the Forbidden Zone adventure game. There is even a pointless, fictitious public service announcement from ANSA that offers a mission report about the astronauts
Planet of the Apes is a Blu-ray made for fans who are committed to the film and want to learn all they can about it, yet no matter your level of devotion, it is a great science fiction film for the home library.
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