James Franco Starring in Planet of the Apes Prequel

Rise of the Apes, a prequel to Planet of the Apes, is in development with James Franco having signed on to star. As an origin story it will be set in present day San Francisco dealing with the aftermath of genetic engineering experiments that led to ultra-intelligent apes and the eventual war. Franco takes on the role of a scientist who becomes a crucial figure in the war between humans and apes. Rise of the Apes is currently slated for release on June 24th 2011.