The Legend of Tarzan – Film Review

It’s been nearly a decade since Tarzan, also known as John Clayton III, left Africa to live in Victorian England with his wife Jane. Danger lurks on the horizon as Leon Rom, a treacherous envoy for King Leopold, devises a scheme that lures the couple to the Congo. Rom plans to capture Tarzan and deliver him to an old enemy in exchange for diamonds. When Jane becomes a pawn in his devious plot, Tarzan must return to the jungle to save the woman he loves.

In the vast jungle of cinematic adaptations, The Legend of Tarzan, directed by David Yates, swings into the fray with a blend of excitement and nostalgia. This reimagining of the classic jungle hero’s tale seeks to captivate audiences with a fresh perspective, but unfortunately falls short of its potential. While the film does boast impressive visuals and a charismatic cast, it fails to fully deliver on its promises, leaving viewers yearning for more depth and substance.

Yates, known for his work on the Harry Potter film series, brings his expertise in fantasy storytelling to the world of Tarzan. The movie opens with an engaging prologue, recounting the origin of Tarzan (played by Alexander Skarsgård) as John Clayton III, the heir to a British family estate in the heart of Africa. The film delves into the complex past of Tarzan, exploring his struggles with identity and his dual existence between the civilized world and the wild jungle.

Visually, The Legend of Tarzan is a feast for the eyes. The lush African landscapes are beautifully captured, with breathtaking shots of sprawling jungles and cascading waterfalls. The attention to detail in the production design and costume department is evident, transporting viewers to a world where man and nature coexist in harmony. The film’s special effects are seamless, particularly in the scenes involving Tarzan’s interaction with the animals of the jungle.

The casting choices for the film are commendable, with Skarsgård stepping into the loincloth of the legendary hero. Skarsgård brings a physicality and brooding intensity to the role, embodying Tarzan’s strength and agility. Margot Robbie shines as Jane Porter, Tarzan’s wife, infusing the character with intelligence and independence. The chemistry between Skarsgård and Robbie is palpable, elevating their scenes together.

However, the film’s script fails to match the talent of its cast. The dialogue feels clichéd and lacks nuance, often resorting to predictable exchanges. The characters, apart from Tarzan and Jane, are woefully underdeveloped. Christoph Waltz, known for his captivating performances, is unfortunately left with a one-dimensional antagonist role, devoid of any complexity or depth. Samuel L. Jackson injects some much-needed humor as George Washington Williams, a fellow adventurer, but his character’s motivations are murky and underexplored.

While The Legend of Tarzan attempts to address significant themes such as colonialism and environmental conservation, it does so with a heavy hand. The social commentary feels forced and lacks subtlety, often overshadowing the film’s narrative and detracting from the overall experience. The pacing of the film is uneven, with moments of excitement interspersed with tedious exposition. The action sequences, while visually impressive, often lack tension and fail to leave a lasting impact.

One aspect where the film truly excels is in its sound design and score. The thunderous roars of the jungle creatures and the rhythmic beating of tribal drums transport viewers deeper into the heart of Africa. Composer Rupert Gregson-Williams‘ musical arrangements perfectly complement the visuals, evoking a sense of wonder and adventure.

Despite its flaws, The Legend of Tarzan does manage to entertain in moments of sheer spectacle. The breathtaking acrobatics and thrilling vine-swinging sequences pay homage to the iconic imagery associated with the character. These moments provide fleeting glimpses of the potential the film had to offer, but they are ultimately overshadowed by its narrative shortcomings.

The Legend of Tarzan falls victim to its own ambitions. While the film possesses stunning visuals and a talented cast, it struggles to find a balance between homage and innovation. The lackluster script and underdeveloped characters hinder the film’s ability to fully engage and leave a lasting impact. It is a valiant attempt to revitalize a beloved tale, but ultimately fails to rise above mediocrity. For fans of the jungle hero, The Legend of Tarzan may offer a nostalgic thrill, but for those seeking a truly immersive and profound cinematic experience, it falls short of the mark.