Tarzan The Ape Man 1981 Review
“Tarzan, the Ape Man” (1981), directed by John Derek and starring Bo Derek as Jane Parker, is a loose adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ classic tale of Tarzan, although this version focuses primarily on Jane’s perspective and has a more sensual approach than traditional Tarzan films.
The story begins with Jane Parker, a young, adventurous woman, arriving in Africa to join her estranged father, James Parker (played by Richard Harris), an explorer who is on a quest to find a mysterious “white ape.” James is eager to make a name for himself in the jungle, while Jane is thrilled by the beauty and danger surrounding her. From the outset, Jane’s father, a domineering figure, directs their journey, despite Jane’s growing concerns about the hazards they face.
As they venture deeper into the jungle, Jane encounters Tarzan (played by Miles O’Keeffe), a wild man who lives among the animals and exhibits a raw, unrestrained nature. The attraction between Jane and Tarzan is instant and primal, contrasting sharply with her more contentious relationship with her father. Over several encounters, Jane is captivated by Tarzan’s strength, simplicity, and his deep connection to the natural world, and Tarzan is equally mesmerized by her.
The journey turns perilous as the group encounters dangers ranging from hostile native tribes to treacherous landscapes. Tensions escalate when Jane and her father are captured by a local tribe. In a climactic series of events, Tarzan arrives to rescue Jane, fighting off attackers in a chaotic battle that ends with Tarzan and Jane fleeing together, further solidifying their bond.
The film culminates in a sensual exploration of Jane and Tarzan’s relationship, focusing on her abandonment of civilization in favor of a life with Tarzan in the jungle. Jane ultimately finds a sense of belonging and freedom with Tarzan that contrasts with the restrictive life she knew back in her father’s world. The movie ends with Jane embracing her new life alongside Tarzan, suggesting she will remain in the wild with him.
Themes and Reception
“Tarzan, the Ape Man” deviates significantly from the traditional Tarzan narrative, placing a stronger emphasis on Jane’s journey and her relationship with Tarzan rather than on Tarzan’s origin or the heroics usually associated with the character. John Derek’s direction focuses on creating a highly sensual atmosphere, often presenting Jane in a stylized, glamorous way amid the jungle’s backdrop. This choice led to a fair share of criticism, as many saw the film as prioritizing spectacle and sensuality over storytelling.
The film was met with largely negative reviews, with critics noting the heavy reliance on Bo Derek’s appearance and the lack of substantial plot development. Richard Harris’s portrayal of Jane’s father added some intensity, though it did not compensate for the perceived lack of depth in other areas. Miles O’Keeffe’s Tarzan, while physically impressive, was a nearly silent character, leaving the emotional narrative heavily on Bo Derek’s portrayal of Jane.
Despite its critical reception, “Tarzan, the Ape Man” found a niche audience and gained a degree of cult status for its unconventional approach. Ultimately, the film stands as a product of the 1980s, characterized by its emphasis on style, glamour, and a reinterpretation of classic adventure tales, albeit one that diverges sharply from traditional depictions of Tarzan and his jungle adventures.
