Tarzan

Chris Buck (1999)

84min

U Certificate

Review

Our Score

by Alan Jones

Despite its adherence to the usual "outsider who wants to belong" formula and some visually arresting action scenes, the first ever cartoon based on the classic jungle hero falls way short of Disney's best output. With weak comic relief provided by assorted "Animalz N the Hood", this vine, women and song saga is a frenetic mix of George of the Jungle and Gorillas in the Mist, with constant bouts of animated mayhem to keep the kids amused. Heaven forbid there should be any quiet, reflective moments as Tarzan (voiced by Tony Goldwyn) decides whether to stay in Africa or return to England with Jane (Minnie Driver). Lacking the epic sweep of Mulan or The Lion King, and laced with feeble background songs from Phil Collins (inexplicably awarded an Oscar), this King of the Swingers may be merchandise-friendly, but it's no jungle VIP.

Summary

A man raised by gorillas in the jungle has his first encounter with humans in the form of a scientist and his daughter, and is torn between remaining among the apes or rediscovering his roots. He must also fight to defend his animal friends from a big-game hunter. Disney animated adventure, with the voices of Tony Goldwyn and Minnie Driver.