PLANET OF THE APES: FALL OF MAN Paperback – November 7, 2023

David F. Walker’s first volume of Marvel’s relaunched “Planet of the Apes” comic series is – much like the rebooted film series starring Andy Serkis – a gritty, grounded, and (mostly) great tale, one that nicely builds upon the foundations laid by “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” in a way that makes it feel like an integral part of the franchise’s ongoing story, rather than just existing as a mere cash grab. Walker – and artist Dave Wachter – do nice work in imbuing these 5 series with a sense of vitalness – much of what’s here feels like it could have very easily made its way into any one of the previous three films (or even been adapted as its own feature length film) – something that speaks to the quality and relevance of the way the story is conveyed here. Also a plus? The series ends – there’s no annoying cliffhangers or “To Be Continued” text at the end of the last issue – something that more modern tie-in miniseries would do well to remember (I’m looking at you, “Stranger Things”).So yeah: a great start to Marvel’s “Planet of the Apes” kick-off. Let’s hope future series keep the quality as high as this.