In the final act of “War for the Planet of the Apes,” the conflict between the human military led by Colonel McCullough (Woody Harrelson) and the apes, led by Caesar (Andy Serkis), reaches its climax. The film explores themes of war, survival, and the consequences of human actions on the planet.
Caesar, who has been seeking revenge for the death of his family, confronts the Colonel in the military compound. During the confrontation, the Colonel reveals that the Simian Flu, which has ravaged the human population, has mutated, causing humans to lose the ability to speak. This revelation adds a layer of tragedy to the conflict, as it becomes apparent that both species are facing dire consequences.
As the battle intensifies, Caesar is captured by the Colonel’s forces. In captivity, Caesar learns that the Colonel has been infected with the mutated Simian Flu, and he is determined to prevent the spread of the virus by killing any infected humans, including his own son. The Colonel’s fanaticism and ruthless tactics mirror the darker aspects of human nature that have led to the downfall of society.
Eventually, Caesar escapes and leads the apes in a final assault on the military compound. The apes, who were once seeking a new home, decide to abandon their original plan in favor of finding a new, remote location where they can live peacefully away from humans.
The climax of the film takes place in a snowy landscape, where the apes and the remaining human soldiers engage in a battle. During the confrontation, Caesar confronts the Colonel one last time and ultimately chooses not to kill him, deciding instead to let nature take its course. The Colonel succumbs to the effects of the mutated Simian Flu and dies.
The film concludes with Caesar succumbing to his injuries sustained during the battle, passing away peacefully. Before his death, he implores his son, Cornelius, and the other apes to live in peace and avoid the mistakes of humanity.
The movie ends with the apes finding a new home, and the implication is that the world is now on the path toward the “Planet of the Apes” as humans continue to decline while apes rise to prominence. The film serves as a powerful and emotional conclusion to the trilogy, exploring themes of humanity, morality, and the consequences of war.