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Tarzan and the Jungle Boy

Tarzan and the Jungle Boy (1968)

Tarzan is joined by a reporter and her fiance on a journey to find a boy who was abandoned in the jungle six years earlier. The search party must also battle an evil native, who is out to kill the boy and take over as chief of his brother's tribe.

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Directed by Robert Gordon

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Robert Gordon

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Tarzan and the Jungle Boy examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Robert Gordon brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1968, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Tarzan and the Jungle Boy took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 147 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The costume department created over 489 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1968, when this film was released:
  • Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
  • The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While Tarzan and the Jungle Boy shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Tarzan II, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Tarzan and the Jungle Boy subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Tarzan and the Brown Prince and Tarzan's Jungle Rebellion explore similar territory, Tarzan and the Jungle Boy stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: May 1, 1968
  • Runtime: 1h 39m