- Film Review
- Reviewed By Sue Heal
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3 out of 5
Director Hugh Hudson's follow-up to Chariots of Fire claims to be the definitive screen version of Edgar Rice Burroughs's oft-filmed tale about the orphaned aristocrat raised by apes. The early scenes in the primate colony are moving and deftly handled (and aided immeasurably by Rick Baker's stunning make-up). However, despite Hudson's skilful re-creation of the stifling atmosphere of Edwardian England, once the action leaves the jungle, the film begins noticeably to sag. Christopher Lambert certainly looks the part, but is not an adept enough actor to carry off the complexities of Tarzan's plight in this decidedly adult version of the tale. But Ralph Richardson injects some much-needed warmth and fun as the Earl of Greystoke and the film also looks glorious - the money thrown at it is all up on the screen. Although the direction may sometimes lose its way, this still adds up to stirring entertainment.
Plot Summary
Adventure starring Christopher Lambert, Ralph Richardson and Ian Holm. When Lord Clayton and his pregnant young wife are shipwrecked off the coast of Africa in 1886, a legend is born. Their son, John, is reared in the jungle by apes and becomes master of all he surveys. That is until the day a hunting party strays into his territory, bringing with it the violence of civilisation.
Cast and crew
Cast
- John Clayton, Tarzan
- Christopher Lambert
- Earl of Greystoke
- Ralph Richardson
- Captain Phillippe D'Arnot
- Ian Holm
- Lord Esker
- James Fox
- Jane Porter
- Andie MacDowell
- Lady Alice Clayton
- Cheryl Campbell
- Lord Jack Clayton
- Paul Geoffrey
- Sir Evelyn Blount
- John Wells
- Major Jack Downing
- Nigel Davenport
- Jeffson Brown
- Ian Charleson
- Sir Hugh Belcher
- Nicholas Farrell
- Captain Billings
- Richard Griffiths
- Buller
- David Suchet
- Jane Porter
- Glenn Close
Crew
- Director
- Hugh Hudson
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