The Human Ape; or, Darwin's Triumph (1909) User Reviews

The film shows how highly an ape can be educated

[deickemeyer · 27 September 2014]

The film shows how highly an ape can be educated. The one in this picture behaves so nearly like a man would in similar circumstances that it is hard to believe one is not looking upon the picture of a human being in the disguise of a simian. But we are not. We have seen educated apes before on the stage and have been impressed by the cleverness of their actions. This one is clothed like a man, eats like a man, drinks and smokes like a man, plays cards and cycles. He also undresses and puts himself to bed. His keeper or mentor is present all the time, but does not prompt the animal. It is really a very wonderful film, and it should please and interest wherever it is shown. Children, in particular, will appreciate it. – The Moving Picture World, May 29, 1909