Rupert Wyatt's
Rise of the Planet of the Apes was a surprise hit this summer, both critically and financially, grossing over $450 million worldwide. Now, according to
Deadline, Andy Serkis who played 'Caesar' has signed on for the sequel, since his contract was for only one film.
"The studio just closed what I’m told is a healthy seven-figure deal for Andy Serkis to reprise his role as lead ape Caesar. Serkis had only signed on for one movie, so his reps had leverage in ensuring that he come back to continue leading the ape takeover in multiple future installments of the series. Director Rupert Wyatt’s original deal came with a sequel option, so he’s locked."
UPDATE: With some fans trying to get the studio to push the Oscar campaign for his performance, Deadline has an update:
"Fox informs me that the studio will wage an Oscar campaign for Andy Serkis for Rise of the Planet of the Apes."
Good news, indeed. Serkis' performance was truly outstanding. What do you think of this?
A single act of both compassion and arrogance leads to a war unlike any other -- and to the Rise of the Planet of the Apes. The Oscar-winning visual effects team that brought to life the worlds of Avatar and Lord of the Rings is breaking new ground, creating a CGI ape that delivers a dramatic performance of unprecedented emotion and intelligence, and epic battles on which rest the upended destinies of man and primate.