The Legend of Tarzan (2016) is an American adventure film directed by David Yates and produced by Warner Bros. Pictures. The film stars Alexander Skarsgård as Tarzan, Margot Robbie as Jane Porter, and features supporting performances by Christoph Waltz, Samuel L. Jackson, and Jim Broadbent.
The film is a reimagining of the classic Tarzan character created by Edgar Rice Burroughs. Set several years after the events of the original story, The Legend of Tarzan follows John Clayton III, also known as Tarzan, who has now been living a civilized life in London under his real name. He has settled into a refined existence with his wife, Jane Porter (Margot Robbie).
However, when Tarzan is invited back to the Congo by the Belgian King Leopold II’s emissary, George Washington Williams (Samuel L. Jackson), he finds himself drawn back to his jungle roots. Williams believes there is a conspiracy involving the exploitation of the Congo’s resources and needs Tarzan’s help to uncover the truth.
Upon returning to Africa, Tarzan discovers that his old enemy, the villainous Léon Rom (Christoph Waltz), has enslaved the local tribes and is orchestrating a plot to exploit the region’s resources. With Jane and Williams by his side, Tarzan must confront Rom, rescue the captured tribes, and stop the nefarious plan.
The Legend of Tarzan combines elements of adventure, action, and romance, while also exploring themes of identity, civilization versus savagery, and environmental conservation. The film is noted for its visually impressive action sequences, lush cinematography of the African landscapes, and a blend of CGI and practical effects to bring the jungle and its inhabitants to life.
Though it received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the film’s action and visual spectacle, while others critiqued its narrative and character development, The Legend of Tarzan remains a visually captivating and action-packed entry in the Tarzan legacy.