Creators inspired by Burroughs have tried to capture Tarzan on film, on radio and television, and in comic books and comic strips. The appeal is almost entirely visual. It would, I think, be improved by watching it dubbed into a language I do not understand, such as Russian or Japanese. From the first frame, a sailing ship in flames captures your imagination. To see Tarzan travel through the jungle like a skateboarder in the wilds of the Bronx or a surfer on a sea of trees is pure joy.
Words are largely superfluous or intrusive.
Perhaps in the 21st century, film will move further from drama and closer to opera. There were only a handful of people in the theatre on opening day. Too many bad Tarzan movies in the past, combined with the embarrassment we feel today about a White hero in Africa, may have killed any hope of popular success. Critics are comparing Tarzan to Disney's last big success, The Lion King , but the resemblance is superficial. The Lion King is pure children's story.