The Planet of the Apes franchise is one of the most iconic science fiction film series in cinematic history. It began in 1968 with the original film, based on the French novel “La Planète des Singes” by Pierre Boulle. The story explores the rise of intelligent apes and the fall of human civilization in a dystopian future. With themes of identity, power, and survival, the franchise remains relevant across generations.
Over the decades, the franchise has expanded to include multiple sequels, reboots, and reimaginings. From Charlton Heston’s legendary role in the original film to Andy Serkis’s powerful portrayal of Caesar in the reboot trilogy, the series continues to evolve. With such a rich cinematic legacy, fans frequently ask: is Planet of the Apes on Hulu?
Is Planet of the Apes Available on Hulu?
As of mid-2025, Hulu does not currently offer all the Planet of the Apes films as part of its regular streaming library. However, Hulu often updates its catalog, and some entries from the franchise may rotate in and out of availability.
If you’re a Hulu subscriber, it’s best to search within the app or on Hulu’s official website to see if any of the movies are currently streaming. Keep in mind that Hulu often bundles with services like Disney+ and ESPN+, which might affect available content.
Hulu’s Licensing Agreements and Rotation
Streaming platforms like Hulu rely on licensing agreements to host movies and TV shows. This means films such as Planet of the Apes may only be available for a limited time before being removed. Titles from major studios, like 20th Century Studios (owned by Disney), might appear on Hulu temporarily and then move to other platforms like Disney+ or HBO Max.
Where to Stream the Planet of the Apes Movies
Although Hulu may not always carry the franchise, several other platforms do offer these titles regularly. Here’s a breakdown of where you can find each major installment:
The Original Series (1968–1973)
- Planet of the Apes (1968)
- Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970)
- Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971)
- Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972)
- Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973)
These classic films are often available on rental platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. Occasionally, they appear on streaming platforms such as HBO Max or Starz.
2001 Tim Burton Reimagining
The 2001 version directed by Tim Burton, starring Mark Wahlberg, is usually available for digital rental or purchase. It’s less frequently available on streaming subscriptions but has appeared on platforms like Peacock and FX Now.
The Reboot Trilogy (2011–2017)
- Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
- Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
- War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
These modern classics have consistently received critical acclaim. You can typically find them on Disney+ due to Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox. They may also be available for purchase or rent on other platforms.
Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024)
The latest installment, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, continues the story generations after Caesar. Released in 2024, this film explores a world where apes rule and humans live in hiding. While it was released in theaters, the movie is expected to become available on streaming by late 2025. Disney+ or Hulu (due to corporate ties) are the most likely candidates.
Why Hulu May Be a Temporary Home for Apes
Hulu often serves as a temporary home for titles from Disney’s vast library. This includes films from Marvel, FX, and 20th Century Studios. Although Planet of the Apes isn’t currently a staple on Hulu, it might return during special promotional events or collection updates.
Check for Hulu Bundles
If you’re using a Hulu + Disney+ bundle, you may already have access to the newer Planet of the Apes films on Disney+. Keep an eye on your bundle settings to maximize viewing options.
How to Watch the Entire Franchise Chronologically
Watching the Planet of the Apes series chronologically offers a unique storytelling experience. Here’s the best order:
- Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
- Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
- War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
- Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024)
- Planet of the Apes (1968)
- Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970)
- Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971)
- Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972)
- Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973)
This sequence follows the chronological story arc from Caesar’s uprising to the downfall of human civilization and beyond.
Why Planet of the Apes Remains Culturally Significant
The Planet of the Apes films are more than just action or sci-fi movie plots. They reflect deep social and political commentary. Themes like race, animal rights, nuclear war, and environmental destruction are common throughout the franchise.
From a film industry standpoint, the series also marked major milestones. The use of practical effects in the original films and the motion capture performance by Andy Serkis in the reboots are groundbreaking achievements in cinema.
Top Characters That Shaped the Franchise
Many unforgettable characters have contributed to the legacy of Planet of the Apes:
- Caesar – The leader of the ape revolution in the reboot series.
- Dr. Zaius – The orangutan scientist and politician from the original films.
- Cornelius and Zira – Sympathetic chimpanzees who help humans understand the ape world.
- Will Rodman – The scientist who raises Caesar and kickstarts the ape uprising.
Critical Reception Over the Years
Each era of the franchise has received a mixed to positive response. The original 1968 film is often praised for its groundbreaking narrative and twist ending. The reboot trilogy has been lauded for its emotional depth and innovative visuals. The 2001 version, however, received more criticism for its story and tone.
Conclusion
At present, Hulu is not the go-to platform for the entire Planet of the Apes collection. While some films may appear temporarily, most of the franchise is better accessed through Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, or digital rental services. Hulu subscribers may still enjoy certain entries during licensing rotations, but it’s not the most consistent home for the series.
If you’re a fan of science fiction, the Planet of the Apes series is worth exploring in full. Whether you’re new to the franchise or revisiting it, each film offers thoughtful storytelling, memorable characters, and thrilling action.
