Tarzan (1999)

After viewing Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Edgar Rice Burroughs wrote to Walt Disney about adapting his novel of an ape-man into a feature animated cartoon. Sixtysome years later, the tale is finally told with brilliant design work that looks unlike any previous animated film. The story is a natural for Disney since the themes of misunderstood central figures have been at the heart of its recent hits. Disney's Tarzan doesn't wander far from the familiar story of a shipwrecked baby who is brought up by apes in Africa. What gives the film its zing is its clever use of music (the songs are sung by Phil Collins himself rather than onscreen characters) and the remarkable animation. Deep Canvas, a 3-D technology, was developed for the film, creating a jungle that comes alive as Tarzan swings through the trees, often looking like a modern skateboarder racing down giant tree limbs. The usual foray of sidekicks, including a rambunctious ape voiced by Rosie O'Donnell, should keep the little ones aptly entertained. The two lead voices, Tony Goldwyn as Tarzan and Minnie Driver as Jane, are inspired choices. Their chemistry helps the story through the weakest points (the last third) and makes Tarzan's initial connection with all things human (including Jane) delicious entertainment. Disney still is not taking risks in its animated films, but as cookie-cutter entertainment, Tarzan makes a pretty good treat. (Ages 5 and up) --Doug Thomas Amazon.com

2 Disc Collector's Edition

Somewhere in 2000, Disney quietly launched a special 2 disc collector's edition of "Tarzan" the same year as its paltry one disc edition. For some reason it advertised the one disc version heavily, which is a shame because the collector's edition is a gem not to be missed by fans. Unfortunately I didn't know about it until years after its release, and by then it was out of print, hard to find, and expensive. Luckily I found a copy that was decently priced, and was finally able to get my hands on this remarkable edition. I see this as the "Tarzan" DVD for adults: instead of cartoony illustrations on the jacket, there's Glen Keane's famous sketch of Tarzan peering at you with those intense eyes. The menus are extremely well designed and the commentaries are entertaining and insightful. It's filled to the brim with extras not found on any other edition (not even the more recent "special edition"). Instead of one long making-of documentary, you are treated to several smaller documentaries devoted to specific topics. This makes it easier to watch what you want. I was astounded at the sophistication of this DVD, especially considering it came out at a time when DVD's were a relatively new phenomena and just starting to come into their own. It demonstrated early-on Disney's capability of designing DVD's that are sophisticated and ahead of the curve. I wish they would do that with all their DVD's. July 24, 2008

Great Movie

I've always loved this movie!! Bought it this Christmas for my sister. She'll love it!!! December 7, 2007

Surprising

I didnt think it would be that great but it is actually very sweet and endearing. The animation is top notch and the voice acting is wonderful. Kids will love this movie, as will adults. It feels very modern and new but it still maintains the classical 'Disney feel'. August 23, 2007

Tarzan

Son enjoyed the movie. I like the little educational bits (like the one included here about jungle) Disney has put in some DVDs. June 27, 2007

Tarzan

purchase made as a gift for a child. good price, very good delivery time, perfect condition when received. May 14, 2007

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