Zahn typically gets cast as comedic/goofy characters, and as a result he often ends up overlooked when he lands a role that rises above the usual fare. I found his performance here a cut or two above what Serkis brings to the front, skillful physical acting along with clear, wide-eyed expressiveness. Maybe Bad Ape just harbored a wider range of emotions than Caesar in this story. What do you monkeys think?
shareBad ape was great. I wanted to know more about him. Zahn did great in the role. Just as good as Serkis, but I think it was a different type of good that's not comparable. Serkis brought emotion and compassion to the role, and Zahn brought some need lightness to the movie. Very cute character.
shareTrue that Bad Ape brought levity to the story, but I saw a greater range of emotions from him as opposed to Caesar who already projected a grim and brooding demeanor before dipping into angry revenge mode. Bad Ape seemed like he constantly was developing with the story as it moved forward.
shareI was surprised how good his language abilities were. He said he learned just by observing and being near humans every day (in the zoo). Apart from him, only Caesar could speak as well (although Maurice seems to be picking it up as well).
With Bad Ape, the movie might also be hinting that there are more out there like him, and they will eventually teach the remaining ones how to speak. Although it's possible many of the zoo apes died. I can't fully remember what he said in that scene at the fireplace.
Still, one teacher is better than none!