Tarzan the Ape Man (1932 film)
Tarzan the Ape Man is a 1932 American pre-Code adventure film, the first sound film adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs's ''Tarzan'' series. Directed by W. S. Van Dyke and starring Elmo Lincoln (in his final portrayal of Tarzan), it significantly departs from the source material, particularly in its portrayal of Tarzan and his relationship with Jane.
Plot Summary
The film depicts Tarzan's upbringing among apes, his eventual encounter with Jane Porter and her father, Professor Porter, and his conflicts with various antagonists, including a jealous rival for Jane's affection and dangerous creatures. The narrative focuses on the physical prowess and primal nature of Tarzan, showcasing his strength and agility. The plot is significantly streamlined compared to the novel, omitting many elements and altering others to suit the constraints of the film medium. A key difference is a more aggressive depiction of Tarzan and a less intellectual approach to his character.
Cast
- Elmo Lincoln as Tarzan
- Maureen O'Sullivan as Jane Porter
- C. Aubrey Smith as Professor Porter
- Neil Hamilton as James Parker
- Frank Puglia as The Priest
- Roy D'Arcy as Nigel (uncredited in some sources)
Production
The film was produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), which secured the film rights to the Tarzan character. MGM sought to create a visually exciting and action-packed film that would appeal to a wide audience, opting for a comparatively more simplistic plot than the source material.
Reception and Legacy
While not universally lauded upon its initial release, ''Tarzan the Ape Man'' (1932) holds a significant place in film history as the first sound Tarzan film and a notable example of early adventure cinema. It established a visual template for future Tarzan adaptations and cemented the character's place in popular culture, setting the stage for many subsequent film and television iterations. The film's legacy lies not only in its impact on the Tarzan franchise but also in its contribution to the development of the adventure genre in Hollywood's Golden Age. Critiques often center on the simplistic plot compared to the source material and the divergence from Burroughs' original conception of the character.