Movie: The Legend of Tarzan
Direction: David Yates
Cast: Alexander Skarsgård, Samuel L Jackson, Margot Robbie, Djimon Hounsou, Jim Broadbent, Christoph Waltz
Music: Rupert Gregson Williams
Cinematographer: Henry Braham
Editor: Mark Day
Genre: Action, Adventure
Rating: ∗∗∗½
What is it about: It’s an action adventure film based on the fictional character “Tarzan”. In this Tarzan is called back to his former habitat to investigate the happenings at a mining encampment. But the invitation of Tarzan has a hidden motive, which forms the crux of the story directed by the “Harry Potter” fame David Yates.
Why it’s disappointing: The film has a teeny bit sluggishness in the pace, but other factors kind of shadows that flaw.
What to watch out for: Tarzan is a character many of us grew watching it on cartoons, films and even the regional filmmakers tried their hand in making third grade Tarzan movies. This film re-creates the aura which was missing from screens in his name.
The film has all the requisites for a genre of this kind. And in fact makes quite a strong case in bringing back the character. The premise was well set with great narration which keeps you hooked to the film.
Alexander Skarsgård as Tarzan/John Clayton III was a great fit. He did a great job and most definitely a commendable one. That was perfectly matched by a fierce “Jane Porter” played by Margot Robbie. She is slowly growing on Hollywood and soon will conquer it. Samuel L.Jackson as George Washington Williams was witty. Christoph Waltz as Captain Leon Rom was apt in spite of stereo type.
This one had great VFX coupled with amazing 3D, which was subtly infused. That resulted not being thrown on your face. The apes were beautifully derived and the making for top notch. There are few scenes which were beautifully shot.
The duel between Akut and Tarzan was a great spectacle on large screen. And Tarzan’s signature swing among the forests was one too. Along with the VFX the sound was mind blowing. Dolby Atmos is truly a bliss when it comes to mixing films like this and after a while a film which did great justice to the mix.
The cinematography was splendid by Henry Braham, the landscapes were lively through his lens. The edit was sharp by Mark Day. And finally the score by Rupert Gregson-Williams was spectacular.
Verdict: David Yates gave quite a fit attire for the return of the most celebrated fictional character “Tarzan”. Let the film resonate and once you do it will sink in, which will make you like this even more. Definitely worth a watch and please do catch this on a large format.
