One Million B.C.

One Million B.C.

Year: 1940

Runtime: 80 mins

Language: English

Directors: Hal Roach, Hal Roach, Jr.

FantasyActionAdventure

An eye‑catching 1940 American fantasy from Hal Roach Studios, released by United Artists and also billed as Cave Man, Man and His Mate, or Tumak. Victor Mature plays Tumak, a young caveman determined to unify the warlike Rock Tribe with the peaceful Shell Tribe. He falls for Loana (Carole Landis), the chief’s daughter, while his stern father (Lon Chaney Jr.) leads the Rock Tribe.

One Million B.C. (1940) – Spoiler-Free Movie Summary & Plot Overview

Get a spoiler-free look at One Million B.C. (1940) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.

In a sweeping, sun‑blazed landscape that feels both mythic and tangible, Tumak awakens to a world divided by ancient customs and raw survival. Two tribes dominate the harsh terrain: the fierce, hierarchical Rock Tribe, whose strength is measured in the hunt, and the gentle, communal Shell Tribe, whose rhythm is set by the cycles of the earth. The film’s visual palette—craggy cliffs, steaming rivers, and a sky that crackles with the promise of change—creates a dream‑like backdrop for a story rooted in primal humanity.

Caught between the clangor of tribal warfare and the soft murmurs of cooperative life, Tumak is driven by an instinct to bridge the chasm separating his people. He is a young caveman whose curiosity and courage set him apart from the grim expectations of his lineage. Across the divide, Loana, the spirited daughter of the Shell chief, embodies the hope of a different way of living, where laughter and shared meals temper the edge of danger. Their emerging connection hints at a fragile alliance that could reshape the balance of power.

Overseeing the Rock Tribe, Akhoba commands respect through sheer force and tradition, embodying the stern, survivalist ethos that has long defined his clan. His presence looms as both obstacle and potential catalyst, suggesting that any movement toward unity will require confronting entrenched authority. As the narrative unfolds, the audience is invited to contemplate a world where elemental forces and human hearts collide, setting the stage for a timeless tale of ambition, love, and the possibility of harmony amid a prehistoric wilderness.

Last Updated: December 05, 2025 at 10:05

Mobile App Preview

Coming soon on iOS and Android

The Plot Explained Mobile App

From blockbusters to hidden gems — dive into movie stories anytime, anywhere. Save your favorites, discover plots faster, and never miss a twist again.

Sign up to be the first to know when we launch. Your email stays private — always.

Explore Movie Threads

Discover curated groups of movies connected by mood, themes, and story style. Browse collections built around emotion, atmosphere, and narrative focus to easily find films that match what you feel like watching right now.

Epic Survival Movies Like One Million B.C.

Stories of humanity's struggle for existence against ancient, untamed forces.If you enjoyed the intense prehistoric struggle in One Million B.C., explore more movies like it. These films feature communities fighting for survival in primal landscapes, facing natural disasters and fierce creatures, all while building alliances and finding hope against overwhelming odds.

epicprimalthrillingharshsurvivalistcooperativehopeful

Narrative Summary

The narrative follows a community or hero facing a series of existential threats in a raw, undeveloped world. The plot is often linear, building momentum through escalating challenges that test physical endurance and social cohesion, culminating in a triumphant overcoming of adversity that reaffirms the value of cooperation and resilience.

Why These Movies?

Movies in this thread share a high-intensity, steady-paced experience rooted in survival. They balance harsh action with a fundamentally hopeful tone, creating epic stories where human perseverance triumphs over a brutal environment.

Movies About Tribal Romance and Unity Like One Million B.C.

Romantic bonds that defy ancient feuds to unite warring factions.Fans of the cross-tribal romance in One Million B.C. will enjoy these similar stories. Discover movies where forbidden love between members of rival groups leads to epic journeys, cultural clashes, and a hopeful fight for peace and cooperation against a backdrop of violence and tradition.

romantichopefultribal rivalryforbidden lovecooperativedramaticepic journey

Narrative Summary

The narrative pattern involves a protagonist from one group falling for someone from a rival, opposing faction. This romance forces them into exile or on a journey, where they must prove the value of unity to both sides, often in the face of a greater, external threat. The story arc moves from conflict and separation toward reconciliation and a happier, unified ending.

Why These Movies?

These films are grouped by their core romantic plot that drives a theme of unity. They share a moderate to high emotional weight, a steady narrative pace that builds toward a climax, and a tone that balances the drama of conflict with the optimism of reconciliation.

Unlock the Full Story of One Million B.C.

Don't stop at just watching — explore One Million B.C. in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what One Million B.C. is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

One Million B.C. Summary

Read a complete plot summary of One Million B.C., including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

One Million B.C. Summary

One Million B.C. Timeline

Track the full timeline of One Million B.C. with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

One Million B.C. Timeline

Characters, Settings & Themes in One Million B.C.

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape One Million B.C.. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in One Million B.C.

More About One Million B.C.

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about One Million B.C.: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About One Million B.C.

Similar Movies to One Million B.C.

Discover movies like One Million B.C. that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.