Steadvar — News without the noise

Privacy · Terms · About

© 2026 Steadvar. All rights reserved.

Matt Shakman to Direct New 'Planet of the Apes' Film

Entertainment5/6/2026
Share

Similar Articles

Matt Damon in Talks to Star in Next Film From 'Everything Everywhere' Directors

Entertainment1d ago

Lionsgate Appoints Amanda Kozlowski as President of Worldwide Marketing

BusinessEntertainment5/4/2026

Dan Steinman Joins Madison Wells as President and Chief Content Officer

BusinessEntertainment4/27/2026

Framestore Promotes Theo Jones to Creative Director of AI

BusinessTechnology5/6/2026

Forced Perspective and The Boldest Partner to Develop Franchise-Ready Film and TV IP

BusinessEntertainment4/28/2026

Director Matt Shakman will helm a new installment in the 'Planet of the Apes' franchise for 20th Century Studios. Screenwriter Josh Friedman, who wrote the recent 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes', is penning the script. Plot details have not been disclosed.

Facts First

  • Matt Shakman to direct a new 'Planet of the Apes' film for 20th Century Studios.
  • Josh Friedman writing the screenplay, having previously written for 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes'.
  • Shakman will produce alongside Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver.
  • Project is overseen by Scott Aversano for the studio.
  • 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes' was a commercial success, grossing nearly $400 million worldwide.

What Happened

20th Century Studios has tapped director Matt Shakman to direct a new film in the 'Planet of the Apes' science fiction franchise. Screenwriter Josh Friedman is writing the script for the new project. Matt Shakman will also produce the film alongside franchise producers Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver. Studio executive Scott Aversano is overseeing the project for 20th Century Studios. Plot details for the new film have not been disclosed.

Why this Matters to You

If you are a fan of the long-running 'Planet of the Apes' franchise, this news signals a continuation of the series with a director known for high-profile genre work. The involvement of the writer from the commercially successful 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes' may suggest a tonal or narrative continuity that you could appreciate. For those interested in film industry trends, the hiring of Shakman indicates the studio's commitment to placing the franchise with established directorial talent.

What's Next

Production on the new 'Apes' film is likely to proceed following the completion of the script. The film's eventual release could build on the audience and financial success of 'Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes', which grossed almost $400 million globally. Further announcements regarding casting, a production timeline, and a release date are expected in the future.

Perspectives

“
Media Observers note the director's transition from the Marvel Cinematic Universe to the 'Planet of the Apes' franchise.