Planet of the Apes
Official Site / Listen : Click Here
(BrokenSea Productions)

I first came across this audio drama adaptation when I was going through all the shows at BrokenSea to see if there were any I would be interested in listening to. What attracted me to it was the beautiful desert windswept subsite created for Planet of the Apes. I have never seen the films and all I knew about was that my father was keen on the story and it involved apes. I gave the first episode a try, then the next, and soon found myself swept into the story unable to stop listening until I heard every last one.

The format is quite epic, particularly with the detail of the world created and introductions by “The Lawgiver”. It felt a lot like the Dune books– where there was a wise fictional saying at the beginning of each chapter. I enjoyed reading those almost as much as the main text. I was worried that the voice acting of the apes would be a bit over the top, but was pleasantly surprised to find that Bill Hollweg chose to direct his actors to have only a subtle echo of it so that their apeness wasn’t too distracting. Of course, technically, it wasn’t just apes– each type of simian had a different function and skillset. A young space explorer, Taylor, is on a long mission and on his way back to Earth crash lands on a strange planet full of walking, talking, intelligent apes. He soon discovers that humans have lost their ability to speak and are treated as savage beasts and slaves. He befriends some scientists who find Taylor’s very existence questions what they thought of mankind. They assist in his escape, but though free, Taylor makes a terrifying discovery in the desert.

There are certain science fiction elements to this audio series, but it is not a science fiction show. This is a philosophical look at what truly makes us human– and questions what is barbarism and what is civilization. Alongside the deep philosophy of Planet of the Apes is an exciting adventure story. Combined they create a very similar atmosphere to Frank Herbert’s Dune, though on a lower level. This story will make you think and reconsider what you believe in, without being boring or preachy.

Part of what makes this audio drama series so interesting is Bill Hollweg’s signature detailed soundscape. From the frightening hunt in the orchards with whizzing arrows, horses and screams to the awe-inspiring atmosphere of the temples, this is a feast for the ears. If you are already familiar with the films and book, this carefully constructed series of 14 long episodes will be a treat. If, like myself, you have no idea what it is about, you’re in for a shocker in the last episode! I think I scared my neighbours with shrieks of horror while listening to the final chapter of this series. If you begin listening to Planet of the Apes, it is a series that you really need to hear to the very end for a full appreciation. Set some time aside and enter the world of the simians, courtesy of BrokenSea.

Extra note: There is also a sequel series there called Beneath the Planet of the Apes, but so far I’m not very impressed with it. Start with the Planet of the Apes, then if you want to give the next series a try go ahead but do not expect a repeat of the fantastic first series.