Where to Watch the Planet of the Apes Movies
You can watch the Planet of the Apes films on a mix of subscription services, digital rental or purchase, and physical media, depending on your region and platform. Availability varies by streaming platform and can change when licenses expire, so it is best to check your local catalog or use a TV listings site for the current status. The franchise spans two trilogies and several short films, offering both release order and chronological viewing options.
Released Order Viewing Path
Watching the series in released chronological order follows the theatrical timeline as audiences originally experienced it. This approach highlights the evolution of visual effects and storytelling across decades.
Original Saga (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)
Modern 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)
Chronological Order Viewing Path
Viewing in chronological order aligns the narrative arcs according to in-story timelines, including the newer origin films alongside the originals.
- Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)
- Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
- War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)
- 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)
Where to Stream or Buy by Region
Below is a general overview of where you may find the films, based on typical catalog placements. Licenses change frequently, so confirm on your local platform for current availability.
| Film | Typical Subscription Streaming (examples) | Digital Rental / Purchase | Physical Media |
|---|---|---|---|
| Planet of the Apes (1968) | May vary by region; often appears on ad-supported or premium tiers | Rent or buy on major platforms | Blu-ray and DVD widely available |
| Beneath the Planet of the Apes (1970) | Included in some catalog subscriptions when licensed | Rent or buy digitally | Blu-ray and DVD |
| Escape from the Planet of the Apes (1971) | Occasionally on rotating premium tiers | Rent or buy digitally | Blu-ray and DVD |
| Conquest of the Planet of the Apes (1972) | Less common in catalogs; check local listings | Rent or buy digitally | Blu-ray and DVD |
| Battle for the Planet of the Apes (1973) | Occasionally available on premium or ad-supported tiers | Rent or buy digitally | Blu-ray and DVD |
| Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011) | Frequently on major subscription services | Rent or buy digitally | Blu-ray and 4K UHD |
| Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014) | Often included in premium tiers | Rent or buy digitally | Blu-ray and 4K UHD |
| War for the Planet of the Apes (2017) | Widely available on top subscription services | Rent or buy digitally | Blu-ray and 4K UHD |
Subscription Services: What to Check
Because streaming catalogs differ by country and update regularly, use these approaches to find the films:
- Search for each film title directly in your streaming app or service.
- Check the service’s ‘Included with subscription’ versus ‘Add-ons’ sections.
- Use third-party site tools (where available) that track current streaming availability by platform and region.
Digital Rental and Purchase Options
Digital platforms let you rent or buy individual titles or collections, which is useful when a film is not included in your subscription. Rental periods are typically 48 hours from first play, while purchase grants longer-term access. Compare prices across stores, and look for bundles that can save money if you want multiple films.
Physical Media and Special Editions
Blu-ray and DVD releases often include special features, director commentaries, and restored picture quality. For fans who value collectibility and high-bitrate video, physical editions remain a durable option. Box sets may offer the full franchise with bonus materials at a better value than buying individually.
Copyright, Region Restrictions, and Viewing Tips
Content licensing is controlled by copyright holders and varies by territory, which means some films may be on one service in one country and unavailable or on another service elsewhere. If you use a VPN or change regions, you may see different catalogs and pricing. For the most accurate results, check the platform in your own region or use a trusted TV listings website that tracks real-time availability.
- Availability changes when licenses expire or renew
- Regional restrictions can limit access on streaming services
- Physical media does not depend on streaming licenses
Choosing the Best Watching Order
Pick the order that matches your viewing goals:
- Release order follows the original cinema sequence and technical evolution
- Chronological order aligns the narrative timeline, including modern reboots
Either way, the series moves from early studio storytelling to modern character-driven sci-fi, culminating in films noted for visual effects and emotional depth. Decide based on whether you prefer historic presentation or tightly linked plot continuity.
Bottom Line
To watch the Planet of the Apes movies, check your preferred streaming service for current inclusion, rent or buy missing titles digitally, or opt for physical media if you want lasting access and features. Confirm local availability in your region, and choose between released or chronological order based on how you want to experience the story.