New ‘Planet of the Apes’ Movie in the Works With ‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Director

Home Film News May 6, 2026 1:16pm PT New ‘Planet of the Apes’ Movie in the Works With ‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Director By Matt Donnelly Plus Icon Matt Donnelly Chief Correspondent @MattDonnelly Latest New ‘Planet of the Apes’ Movie in the Works With ‘Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Director 11 minutes ago Scarlett Johansson Joins Ari Aster’s Next Film ‘Scapegoat’ at A24 4 hours ago ‘Apex,’ ‘Man on Fire’ Top Netflix Global Charts; Peter Chernin’s North Road First Indie Studio to Claim No. 1 Film and Series on Streamer 1 day ago See All ©Walt Disney Co./Courtesy Everett Collection Director Matt Shakman is bouncing from Marvel’s sacred timeline to “The Planet of the Apes,” as the director will shepherd a new film in the sci-fi franchise for 20th Century Studios.  Shakman helmed last year’s “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” for Disney’s superhero label, and has now been entrusted with screenwriter Josh Friedman to revisit the successful world of talking primates who rise up against a cruel humanity.  Related Stories Disney's 'Toast to TV' Emmy FYC Kickoff, Hosted by Dana Walden, Celebrates With A-List Stars, Producers