"The Clan of the Cave Bear," both the 1980 novel by Jean M. Auel and its 1986 film adaptation, sparked controversy primarily over its portrayal of prehistoric human societies and gender roles. Critics argued that the depiction of a female protagonist, Ayla, who exhibits advanced skills and independence, was anachronistic and inconsistent with anthropological evidence of the time. Additionally, some felt that the film's interpretation did not fully capture the novel's depth, leading to debates about fidelity in adaptations and the representation of prehistoric life.

"The Clan of the Cave Bear," based on Jean M. Auel's novel, is set in prehistoric Europe during the Upper Paleolithic period. While it captures some elements of early human life, such as survival skills and social structures, the film takes creative liberties for dramatic effect. The portrayal of interactions between Neanderthals and Cro-Magnons, as well as the characters' behaviors and societal norms, may not be entirely historically accurate. Overall, it offers a speculative glimpse into prehistoric life rather than a precise representation.

"The Clan of the Cave Bear," a novel by Jean M. Auel, is set in prehistoric Europe and follows the story of Ayla, a young Cro-Magnon girl who becomes orphaned after an earthquake. She is discovered by a group of Neanderthals known as the Clan, who adopt her despite their differences. The story explores themes of survival, identity, and the clash of cultures as Ayla struggles to fit in with the Clan while maintaining her individuality and discovering her own abilities. The novel combines elements of adventure, anthropology, and human evolution.

In "The Clan of the Cave Bear," Ayla is a young girl around 5 years old when she is orphaned and subsequently adopted by the Clan. The story follows her as she grows up among the Neanderthal-like Clan, navigating her identity and struggles. As the narrative progresses, Ayla matures into her teenage years, highlighting her challenges and differences from the Clan members. The film, based on Jean M. Auel's novel, explores themes of survival, adaptation, and cultural differences.