Is Treachery and Greed on the Planet of the Apes Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1980)

📖 The Core Premise

Treachery and Greed on the Planet of the Apes returns to the screen in 1980, bringing a fresh narrative to the TV Movie, Adventure, Thriller, Science Fiction genre. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "The fugitives Burke, Virdon and Galen try to save the life of a human blacksmith and his son, whom gorilla leader Urko has threatened with death should his horse lose another race. The trio also attempt to expose a crooked gorilla by framing him in a plot to kill Urko. [The third of five telefilms edited from episodes of the 1974 TV series; this film combines the episodes "The Horse Race" and "The Tyrant"]"

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Ron Harper shines in a role that demands both nuance and gravitas, elevating the material significantly. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good TV Movie. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Treachery and Greed on the Planet of the Apes worth your time? If you appreciate TV Movie, Adventure, Thriller, Science Fiction films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. It stands out as one of the stronger entries of 1980, offering enough depth to satisfy critical viewers while remaining accessible to casual audiences.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Treachery and Greed on the Planet of the Apes is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 90 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.