Welcome to the jungle

Rating: 10/10 (19 November 1999)

* * * * ½ (4½ stars of 5)
Thoroughly warm, dynamic and rewarding Disney movie destined to be remembered among the best.
Fast paced and constantly entertaining (not a dull moment), the legend of Tarzan swings again by way of a great screenplay (Burroughs is intelligently yet honorably cooked down) and some amazing and funny vocal work (Rosie McDonnell is hilarious as teenage friend Terk, Lance Henriksen is terrifying as silverback Kerchak, and Glenn Close is nothing short of magical as mother Kala.)
Visually awe inspiring, Tarzan is like nothing you have ever seen before. I was told of this in advance, but little did I expect this much of a quantum leap; it can not be grasped untill witnessed. And this, in a cinema. Pleeeeze.
The Disney studios introduce a new technique called `deep canvas´ - a form of greater scope, depth and texture by way of incorporating 2D characters in a 3D (CGI) enviroment - that truly make the jungle and it`s creatures come alive. Some downright spectacular action sequences (Indiana Jones worthy) - staged in this beautiful and lavish world of worlds - leave young as well as old gasping in their seats.
Also watch for :
* The distinct lack of characters crooning (singing), as the songs (Phil Collins) are used as a backdrop or for story compressional purposes only.
* The intelligent twists on the incarnation of the figure of Tarzan. Mainly; here he walks on all fours like a gorilla. What a great touch.
* The character of Jane; always a sore spot in other renditions (from the `Me Tarzan, you-scream-and-schmooze-only-Jane´ theory), is completely wonderful here. Minnie Driver`s "performance" is Academy Award worthy; fiesty, cheery, heartfelt and the best female lead since Lady (Lady and the Tramp).
Ultimately fun for all ages, Tarzan only has one minor setback. The inclusion of a villain will - to the nitty-gritty - seem somewhat superflous as we are busy being enchanted by the wonderful scenery and characters and really have no wish to be disturbed.
Go now. See it. Me, I`m off to swing in my curtains. Bye.