'Rise of the Planet of the Apes': Rupert Wyatt talks human aspect of the film -- VIDEO

Each year, the Oscars recognize A-list talent we regularly see on screen, on the red carpet, and in tabloids. But the Academy Awards also reward those who work behind the scenes: the writers, editors, costume designers, and others who help create trophy-worthy movie magic. This Oscars season, we’ll be toasting those off-screen artists by delving into the hidden secrets that helped create the on-screen magic that we — and the Academy — fell in love with. For more access backstage during this Oscars season, click here for EW.com’s Oscars Behind the Scenes coverage.

What would come next should humankind no longer exist? Who would roam the earth? That’s the heart of the story in Rise of the Planet of the Apes, nominated for an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects for its work in creating an army of apes that take over San Francisco. In an interview below, director Rupert Wyatt dives deeper into the humanistic aspect of the film, while James Franco examines the bond created between Caesar and Will Rodman.

Read more:

EW Special Coverage: Oscars 2012

Watch live video from behind the scenes on Oscar night at Oscar.com

Photo Gallery: Oscar Nominees: What EW Critics Said

Photo Gallery: 25 Movies to See Before Oscar Night