Despite its ambitious $18 million budget and the source material's popularity, the film struggled at the box office, earning just $2 million. However, it gained recognition for its attempt to portray prehistoric life with detailed sets and costumes, as well as its use of a unique sign language developed for the Neanderthal characters.
Fun Fact: The film’s dialogue was minimal, with much of the communication conducted through the invented sign language, adding a layer of authenticity but also presenting a challenge for mainstream audiences.
Trivia Question: What is the title of the first sequel in Jean M. Auel’s Earth’s Children book series, following The Clan of the Cave Bear?