James Franco to monkey around in 'Planet of the Apes' prequel

"Rise of the Apes," the 2011 "Planet of the Apes" prequel, has found its first star -- James Franco, who you may remember from his stint as "Franco" on "General Hospital" (among other things, like the "Spider Man" franchise and "Pineapple Express"). According to Cinematical, Franco is slated to play one of the young scientists whose experiments lead to the apes' takeover and mankind's downfall. It is set in present day San Francisco and will focus on the war for supremacy.

Rupert Wyatt ("The Escapist") has signed on to direct the prequel, which will be penned by screenwriters Rick Jaffa ("The Relic," "Eye for an Eye") and Amanda Silver ("The Relic," "The Hand that Rocks the Cradle"). The release is set for June 24, 2011.

So what do you think? Is Franco is a good choice for an ape-fighting scientist?

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