The prehistoric era is usually defined as the time before humans began to write and thus record their history. Therefore, when creating a story set in the prehistoric world, writers for movies and TV find themselves with plenty of creative liberty, especially when compared with other historically inspired forms of entertainment.
From dinosaurs to woolly mammoths and hunter-gatherers on the precipice of agriculture, there are endless stories to be told about the millions of years of history on earth, and as such many classics have been released over the years.
10 10,000 BC (2008)
Branded as an epic of the prehistoric period, 10,000 BC mostly failed to live up to its own high expectations. Although the film missed the mark on multiple points, for example, its historical accuracy, there are still many reasons to give it a go, especially for fans who just can't get enough of the era.
Where this movie shines brightest is in its action scenes which often feature an array of gigantic prehistoric creatures. Their rumbling and rampaging are best enjoyed by both ears and eyes at the cinema.
9 Brother Bear (2003)
One of Disney's saddest films, Brother Bear tells the story of an Inuit boy who lives in Alaska towards the end of the ice age. After killing a bear in revenge for his brother, he himself is transformed into a bear to learn some hard truths.
This animated relic naturally comes with Disney's beautiful visuals, an endearing soundtrack, and a story and cast of characters that will have viewers both laughing and crying.
8 Iceman (2017)
Based on the discovery of a Neolithic man's body in the Alps, Iceman explores what could have been this individual's life and death at the dawn of the Stone Age. Given the name Keleb and the role of the clan leader, the protagonist has to deal with an attack on his tribe that came about as a result of his absence.
Although the film can feel a little lacking when it comes to the story, the authenticity and visuals more than make up for it. With a focus on cinematography, immersive audio, and an incredible soundtrack, this is a film best enjoyed on the big screen.
7 The Flintstones (1960-1966)
Synonymous with the Stone Age, The Flintstones from 1960-1966 is a classic when it comes to prehistoric TV shows. The animated sitcom follows Fred Flintstone and his family in a Stone Age parody of modern family life.
With an iconic theme song, running jokes, and Fred's own catchphrase of "yabba dabba do!" it is easy to see how this show has managed to stay present in the minds of modern audiences.
6 Alpha (2018)
Alpha, a story of survival and unlikely companionship, follows Keda the son of a tribal chief, and his trials and tribulations in the dangerous prehistoric world after an unfortunate separation from his family.
On his perilous journey, Keda finds a wounded and abandoned wolf who needs help just as much as himself. Forming an unlikely duo, the pair survive and thrive thanks to their friendship, serving as an origin story for how dogs became the best friends of mankind.
5 The Croods (2013)
DreamWorks is known for making fantastic family films and the animation studio's take on the prehistoric world, The Croods, was no exception. A story about family, exploration, and new beginnings, this film is packed full of feel-good moments, on top of punchlines that will have adults laughing just as much as kids.
Full of vibrant colors and animations that feel just as new as they did in 2013, The Croods might not be as well known as other DreamWorks products, but for anyone who watches it, it is a treat for all the senses.
4 Jurassic Park (1993)
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Although Jurassic Park is not technically set in the prehistoric period, the aims of the story's theme park were very much to bring the era into existence once more. As one of Steven Spielberg's all-time classics, this film enjoyed tremendous success and broke new ground in the film industry.
Beyond its impact on future movies, Jurassic Park also had cultural implications, as the impressive computer-generated and animatronic dinosaurs inspired a new generation of love for the giants that once roamed the world. It also went on to be the first of many in a franchise of films, shows, and games.
3 Primal (2019-)
Genndy Tartakovsky's Primal is an animated horror show that has received much praise from its intended adult audience. Anachronistically combing two bookends of the prehistoric era, a dinosaur and a man or more specifically a Neanderthal named Spear, the series explores a fantasy approach to the genre.
The dynamic relationship between Spear and Fang, a Tyrannosaurus whose hatchlings were killed, is what defines this show as they both come to terms with their personal losses and find new life and purpose in each other. The show is ongoing and continues to impress viewers across the board.
2 Prehistoric Planet (2022)
Documentaries narrated by David Attenborough are almost always works of art and his latest dip into the world of the dinosaurs with Prehistoric Planet is no different. Spanning five episodes, this documentary uses the latest technology and most up-to-date paleontological research to send viewers back 66 million years ago.
With stunningly realistic prehistoric creatures generated on screen and David Attenborough's serene and educational voice, anyone can sit back and take in the sights that used to dominate this world, all while learning.
1 Ice Age (2002)
For many people, especially those growing up in the 2000s, the mention of an ice age is likely to conjure up the image of Blue Sky Studios's debut film from 2002, Ice Age. As an animated comedy adventure, this movie is perfect for kids, families, and even adults looking for nostalgia.
From the frozen landscape ready for adventure to the hilarious combination of a grumpy mammoth, an edgy saber-toothed tiger, and a sloth who doesn't know when to stop talking, it is easy to see how this film achieved success and went on to inspire an entire series.