Instagram/Matt Shakman & Josh Fried Movie 20th Century Studios is reviving Planet of the Apes with Matt Shakman directing. Josh Friedman writes the next chapter in the iconic sci-fi saga. May 7, 2026 AceShowbiz - 20th Century Studios is reviving its iconic sci-fi franchise with a fresh entry in the Planet of the Apes saga. Matt Shakman, known for directing Marvel Studios' The Fantastic Four, has been confirmed to helm this new installment, according to The Hollywood Reporter. This upcoming film will not serve as a direct sequel to Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, which grossed $397.