Is The Peking Man Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Peking Man is likely a skip if you enjoy Science Fiction movies.
It features a runtime of 115 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Peking Man Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1997, The Peking Man enters the Science Fiction genre with a narrative focused on In 1929 the fossil of a 500,000 year old man is discovered in China. Under the direction of Junya Satō, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Naoto Ogata. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Peking Man offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, The Peking Man resonates with current cultural themes in the Science Fiction space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, The Peking Man is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of The Peking Man centers on a unique premise within the Science Fiction landscape. In 1929 the fossil of a 500,000 year old man is discovered in China. In 1941 the Japanese army confiscates this find, but during the war the remains disappear. Based on these factual events, this movie takes off with a science fiction story involving a space rocket which places a satellite in orbit containing a secret cargo. The satellite crashes on a remote island and footprints are found in the sand leading away from the crash site. A story of how an ancient primitive cave-dwelling family contends with the scientists who want to study them. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1997 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Peking Man has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a The Peking Man sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Peking Man (1997): with an audience rating of 3/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Science Fiction cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Peking Man has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 3/10, and global collection metrics, The Peking Man stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1997 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Peking Man movie hit or flop?
The Peking Man is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3/10 and lower collections.
Is The Peking Man worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3/10, The Peking Man may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Peking Man online?
The Peking Man may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Peking Man movie hit or flop?
The Peking Man is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3/10 and lower collections.
Is The Peking Man worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3/10, The Peking Man may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Peking Man online?
The Peking Man may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of The Peking Man?
The Peking Man is a Science Fiction movie that follows: In 1929 the fossil of a 500,000 year old man is discovered in China. In 1941 the Japanese army confiscates this find, but during the war the remains disappear. Based on these factual events, this movi...
Is The Peking Man family friendly?
The Peking Man is classified as Science Fiction. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is The Peking Man available in?
The Peking Man is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
In 1929 the fossil of a 500,000 year old man is discovered in China. In 1941 the Japanese army confiscates this find, but during the war the remains disappear. Based on these factual events, this movie takes off with a science fiction story involving a space rocket which places a satellite in orbit containing a secret cargo. The satellite crashes on a remote island and footprints are found in the sand leading away from the crash site. A story of how an ancient primitive cave-dwelling family contends with the scientists who want to study them.
Critic Reviews
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