Read Mixed User Reviews for The Legend of Tarzan

4

GentM2015Aug 24, 2016

The Legend of Tarzan is directed by David Yates and stars the likes of Alexander Skarsgård, Samuel L. Jackson, Margot Robbie, Djimon Hounsou, Jim Broadbent, and Christoph Waltz.
With a director such as the amazing David Yates, you'd exceptThe Legend of Tarzan is directed by David Yates and stars the likes of Alexander Skarsgård, Samuel L. Jackson, Margot Robbie, Djimon Hounsou, Jim Broadbent, and Christoph Waltz.
With a director such as the amazing David Yates, you'd except your fantasy movie experience to be special considering his brilliant previous work on the Harry Potter franchise but you'd just be left disappointed - like me.
This movie had it all going for, a big budget, an amazing cast and director all they had to do was come up with a simple script that pushes Tarzan towards his adventure on the jungle, and they failed miserably. The story is so confusing and even worse uninteresting that at a point you're left asking yourself - is Tarzan even on this ?
And when we finally do arrive at the ever so expected Tarzan classic sequences such as, swinging through the jungle, it is so disappointing and terribly done that you realize it was not worth the wait at all. Heck, even the fight scenes with Tarzan in it were so poorly shot, with intense shaky cam that makes it nearly impossible to tell what's going on. Then there are a lot of side stories that are just thrown in there for the sake of the story that you do not care about at all.
On a more positive note though, Samuel L. Jackson looked like he was having fun on the role and his character gave the film that much needed energy from time to time. Christoph Waltz however was generic to an unbelievable degree, his character's motivation for doing the things he's doing make very little sense, not that anybody even cares about it either way. Even the CGI was mediocre, in a year when we've had movies like The Jungle Book where the talking animals looked almost photo-realistic, Legend of Tarzan just fails on that and many other levels too.
There were a few scenes here and there that were fine-ish to look at and slightly interesting but overall I would not recommend this film at all. It is filled with potential but only ends up being a major disappointment that suffers from terrible pacing and a story which is all over the place to say the least.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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6

HMF_47Jul 8, 2016

I went to see The Legend of Tarzan because I'm a huge fan of Alexander Skarsgard, and in that regard, it doesn't disappoint. He has screen presence to spare and gives a great understated performance, which is quite refreshing in a summerI went to see The Legend of Tarzan because I'm a huge fan of Alexander Skarsgard, and in that regard, it doesn't disappoint. He has screen presence to spare and gives a great understated performance, which is quite refreshing in a summer blockbuster. He has the perfect balance between English aristocrat and animal, and does a convincing job selling his bond with wildlife.

Skarsgard's chemistry with the rest of the cast is on point, especially with Samuel L. Jackson. Margot Robbie was also pretty good, especially considering that she's relegated to be a glorified MacGuffin. However, I'm afraid I can't say the same about Christoph Waltz, who at this point, has gotten pretty tiresome because of his same old mustache twirling (literally) jerk shtick. He almost single-handedly ruined the movie. Where's Gary Oldman when you need him?

The Legend of Tarzan has its heart in the right place, since it wants to go for the most politically correct route possible, even though it relies on cliches like the mighty whitey, the damsel in distress or the aforementioned mustache twirling villain. Its story isn't particularly engaging or nuanced, but it has the decency of never being boring thanks to an agile pacing.

I've never been a fan of David Yates' direction, and this movie didn't do anything to change my mind about it. He still likes to use the same dull and dark color palette, which is a baffling choice for a film set in the Congo jungle. The action scenes are decently staged, but many of them feel pointless and contrived. And since the villain is more annoying than menacing, there's not much sense of urgency in them.

I won't go as far as saying that The Legend of Tarzan is a bad movie. But I can't help but feel that it's a missed opportunity to be a deep exploration of complicated themes like poaching, race relations or cultural identity.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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4

EpicLadySpongeJul 1, 2016

The Legend of Tarzan does represent some of the finest Tarzan moments in movie history, but its story is generally corny for moviegoers. Tarzan fans, go yell in the jungle because Tarzan's here. Its corny story, usual characters, (Actually, IThe Legend of Tarzan does represent some of the finest Tarzan moments in movie history, but its story is generally corny for moviegoers. Tarzan fans, go yell in the jungle because Tarzan's here. Its corny story, usual characters, (Actually, I don't feel bad for Alexander Skarsgård, but his performance is bland enough. At least he tried...), even better, the director wanted to take Tarzan to the next dimension, but failed to even try to fit the Tarzan world into the normal world. The Legend of Tarzan may look interesting by covers and posters, but it failed as a movie itself.… Expand

6 of 12 users found this helpful66

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4

JonZsuJul 2, 2016

The Legend of Tarzan missed every point on entertainment, story and originality. This CGI-heavy motion picture failed to deliver a convincing tale of a really interesting character by trying to be way too serious and uptight, which results inThe Legend of Tarzan missed every point on entertainment, story and originality. This CGI-heavy motion picture failed to deliver a convincing tale of a really interesting character by trying to be way too serious and uptight, which results in an unpleasant pile of boring images that have no consistency or chemistry.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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5

TVJerryJul 4, 2016

It's almost 1:45 into this movie before Alexander Skarsgård slips off his fancy English duds to reveal his jungle-bred physique (and it's worth the wait!). That's because he starts this story as a civilized Lord back home in England, puttingIt's almost 1:45 into this movie before Alexander Skarsgård slips off his fancy English duds to reveal his jungle-bred physique (and it's worth the wait!). That's because he starts this story as a civilized Lord back home in England, putting the jungle behind him. To make him "go native," it takes a tired plot about Belgians (led by the inevitably evil Christoph Waltz) mining the Congo for diamonds and slaves. Margot Robbie does make a lively, lovely Jane. Even though the story is somewhat clunky, often predictable and just a tad absurd, there's lots of magnificent scenery and jungle spectacle (although some of the CGI flora and fauna isn't convincing). The few action scenes are cut too fast and become a blur of movement and by the preposterous finale, Tarzan has demonstrated superhuman powers. The only thing that's special about this retread is Skarsgård in his Tarzan tights.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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4

GreatMartinJul 1, 2016

What is there to say about a movie called “The Legend of Tarzan” that doesn’t have the title hero ever appear in a loincloth? Or where his sidekick, a Black man, is the wiser man, a philosopher and has funnier lines than Cheetah ever had? OrWhat is there to say about a movie called “The Legend of Tarzan” that doesn’t have the title hero ever appear in a loincloth? Or where his sidekick, a Black man, is the wiser man, a philosopher and has funnier lines than Cheetah ever had? Or where Jane is a 21st century feminist.

This update of the legend of Tarzan does have him swinging from vine to vine, diving into trees, carrying a man on his back as he swings onto a moving train. He fights computer generated apes, losing some, winning some, and he never utters “Me Tarzan, you Jane”, which is a good thing. There has never been a Tarzan as muscularly defined as this one is nor who’s face, including the eyes, are never involved with what emotions he tries to express.

The stars of “The Legend of Tarzan” are production designer Stuart Craig and cinematographer Henry Braham who make Gabon, Africa, look like a Paradise, along with visual effects by Tim Burke including all the animals who are computer generated.

Alexander Skarscard as Tarzan serves a hefty dish of eye candy while Margot Robbie brings feistiness to Jane. Christopher Waltz’s villain is becoming old hat while Samuel L. Jackson brings a much-needed smile or two, along with heroics, while Djimon Hounsou, as a tribal chief, does what he can with the role.

“The Legend of Tarzan” is one of 6 movies opening this July 4th weekend and I think I could have done better with any other of the 5!… Expand

4 of 10 users found this helpful46

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6

Muskrat147Jul 11, 2016

Boasting impressive set pieces, true-to-life CGI, and taut direction from David Yates, The Legend of Tarzan is well made, even with it's long run time, recycled story, and weak acting and dialogue.

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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6

NerdConsultantJul 23, 2016

this isn’t that great of a Tarzan film and I think people that are unfamiliar with the extended novels of Tarzan might be a bit surprised to find that they are not getting a Tarzan origin story with this film. It’s got some decent action,this isn’t that great of a Tarzan film and I think people that are unfamiliar with the extended novels of Tarzan might be a bit surprised to find that they are not getting a Tarzan origin story with this film. It’s got some decent action, some decent performances but I don’t think they got into the psychology of Tarzan well enough. I also felt they tried too hard to turn Tarzan into a super hero movie, not that is necessarily a bad thing, but it you are going to do that it’s got to be well executed.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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5

KrissTolliday14Nov 6, 2016

THE LEGEND OF TARZAN: With all the superhero movies out there today it was inevitable that one of the first 'superheroes' was bound to get a remake. It is rather ironic however that it is Tarzan that fails to set any kind of benchmark andTHE LEGEND OF TARZAN: With all the superhero movies out there today it was inevitable that one of the first 'superheroes' was bound to get a remake. It is rather ironic however that it is Tarzan that fails to set any kind of benchmark and instead is one of the most generic out of the lot. The plot at its heart is a simple damsel in distress as a rehabilitated Tarzan (now John of Greystoke) returns to his animalistic ways in order to save his beloved Jane. However the narrative of this straightforward plot takes many bends in the road as we include subplots of slavery, jurisdiction, politics, and a rather odd and perverted infatuation. It is all far too much with a lot going on and nothing focused on. The characters are one dimensional with very little tension and emotion feeding through, and Tarzan's connection with the animals is either ham-fisted or unreliable. We are made to believe that he can cope in this wild and then given an on the nose flashback to just remind you of who he is. The flashbacks are unnecessary but I believe are there to pad out the story as with the lack of depth there is very little to sustain the running time, despite it being less than two hours. The cast are rather bland with Skarsgaard fighting a dull character, Samuel L Jackson being Samuel L Jackson, Margot Robbie given little to do and Christoph Waltz basically phoning it in. It isn't the worst film to hit the big screen this year but with the talent involved in it there should have been a much better film produced. Too much and yet too little completely wastes The Legend of Tarzan.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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4

marc5477Sep 8, 2016

Yet another CG snorefest with no heart. A mindless action flick where Tarzan has matured and makes his way back to the jungles to stop slavery except that Tarzan as we know him was largely absent. Instead he was more like a brooding vampireYet another CG snorefest with no heart. A mindless action flick where Tarzan has matured and makes his way back to the jungles to stop slavery except that Tarzan as we know him was largely absent. Instead he was more like a brooding vampire which is exactly what his actors played in a unrelated TV series named True Blood. All his scenes were boring and the action was plain silly. The movie reminded of a real bad 80's style action cartoon... you know... one of those scenes where all the heavily armed bad guys are waiting to spring a trap, only to run away at the 1st sign of danger. All except the evil leader, who can apparently kill anyone using a necklace which makes awesome swoosh sounds whenever it is whipped around. But worry not, because nothing stands in the way of the mighty Tarzan who can break anything with his neck muscles alone! Puke. Still, it was better than the latest Independence Day movie which does not say much.… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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5

Compi24Jul 12, 2016

Director David Yates' "Hook-esque" take on "Tarzan" feels more like a sequel to David Yates' nonexistent "Tarzan" predecessor than anything else. Lacking the life, vim, and vigor of most other filmic adaptations featuring the classic EdgarDirector David Yates' "Hook-esque" take on "Tarzan" feels more like a sequel to David Yates' nonexistent "Tarzan" predecessor than anything else. Lacking the life, vim, and vigor of most other filmic adaptations featuring the classic Edgar Rice Burroughs character, "The Legend Of Tarzan" plods along on sluggish pacing, spotty CGI, and muted performances from all cast members except the lovely Samuel L. Jackson. It's not to say there isn't some enjoyment to be had. I just simply wanted more rope-swinging and "uhhh--ah--uh--ah--uhhhhhhhhhh--ah--uh--ah--uhhh--ing." And, yes, that's the closest I could get to a phonetic spelling of the Tarzan yell.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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6

AxeTJul 13, 2016

If you like Tarzan you would probably like this movie. It's a big grand production serious in tone with state-of-the-art animal effects and a few laughs. Most importantly it doesn't go on way too long as is the stupid trend. Is it somehowIf you like Tarzan you would probably like this movie. It's a big grand production serious in tone with state-of-the-art animal effects and a few laughs. Most importantly it doesn't go on way too long as is the stupid trend. Is it somehow underwhelming though? Yes.
My problem with it is I am bored out of my mind now by all these big Hollywood formula flicks, and I don't much like Tarzan. I still can recognize its accomplishment on some level and the fact that it delivers on its title for the most part.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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6

RalfbergsDec 25, 2016

Nothing impressive in my opinion and at some points a bit over the top with Tarzan being able to fight against anybody or even against masses of people. Don't get me wrong, it was a fun movie, but I did want to see something more here.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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6

AndrewLambertNov 13, 2016

The very definition of your average summer blockbuster movie, improved by the presence of Christopher Waltz and a more detailed backstory than in previous adaptions of the legendary character.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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5

KayVen17Sep 3, 2017

Deutsche Review - Kritik Der folgende Test ist in 5 Kategorien zusammengefasst. Diese 5 Kartegorien ergeben die Gesamtpunktzahl von 0 - 100 Punkten. Um einen passenden Userscore zu geben wird auf oder abgerundet. Bei 84 Punkten ergibt dasDeutsche Review - Kritik Der folgende Test ist in 5 Kategorien zusammengefasst. Diese 5 Kartegorien ergeben die Gesamtpunktzahl von 0 - 100 Punkten. Um einen passenden Userscore zu geben wird auf oder abgerundet. Bei 84 Punkten ergibt das einen User Score von 8. Bei 86 einen von Userscore von 9. Falls eine 85 kommt entscheide ich ob ich es eher positiv oder negativ nehme. Regeln verstanden? Dann sind hier meine Punkte. Mein persönlicher Score = 46/100 Mein User Score = 5/10… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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5

COOLQUINN17Jul 10, 2016

This is a movie that kinda bored the hell out of me. I thought that it would be an epic adaptation of Tarzan but it wasn't that. The main problem I had with this movie is that, it's slow. It takes a while before the action happens. SpeakingThis is a movie that kinda bored the hell out of me. I thought that it would be an epic adaptation of Tarzan but it wasn't that. The main problem I had with this movie is that, it's slow. It takes a while before the action happens. Speaking of the action, there's actually a few well done action scenes. The cast was alright, I thought that Samuel L. Jackson was the best thing in the movie cause it's Samuel L.Jackson! The cgi on the apes is meh, it's not really that spectacular or anything. The Legend of Tarzan overall is not really that great but it does have a few great moments. If you love Tarzan then you might be a little disappointed with this movie. If I were you, I would stick with the Disney Tarzan movie.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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5

Couchfish23Dec 23, 2017

Let's get this straight: this movie definitely had great effects and CGI as well as some good acting, but it really felt like the story was all over the place. It also got terribly repetitive in the last half an hour or so. Don't get meLet's get this straight: this movie definitely had great effects and CGI as well as some good acting, but it really felt like the story was all over the place. It also got terribly repetitive in the last half an hour or so. Don't get me wrong; I am not saying that this is a bad movie, It might even be good for hardcore Tarzan fans but it really didn't satisfy me.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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6

SpangleAug 29, 2016

The Legend of Tarzan was far better than I expected. While the dialogue is awkward and both Samuel L. Jackson and Christoph waltz left much to be desired in their roles, the film is still a breath of fresh air when it comes to Tarzan.The Legend of Tarzan was far better than I expected. While the dialogue is awkward and both Samuel L. Jackson and Christoph waltz left much to be desired in their roles, the film is still a breath of fresh air when it comes to Tarzan. Uniquely focusing on his days post-Tarzan and his return to the wild, The Legend of Tarzan was impressively greenlit by Warner Bros. Given that it largely does not provide what one wants from a Tarzan film, it was likely ill-advised. Fortunately for me, I liked this new take. I have no desire to see him exclusively in the wild and meeting people for the first time. That film has been done to death. While this film has been done before, it is new for Tarzan and that freshness is enough for me. Plus, Alexander Skarsgaard and Margot Robbie have absolutely sensual chemistry with one another that makes their epic romance all the more believable. From the phenomenal overhead shots of the Congo, the terrific set design, and beautiful costume/production design, The Legend of Tarzan is a true feast for the eyes. The film also tries to tackle the atrocities done to the Congo by Belgium and slavery in general, which is a noble task to try and tackle.

Unfortunately, the major problem for this one is the storytelling. While the dialogue is bad for most of the film, the constant flashbacks are unwanted. The flashbacks should have been the beginning, in which the film could briefly touch on Tarzan's time in the wild. Instead, they are interspersed throughout the film, which really messes with the overall flow. Plus, the poor acting from Jackson and Waltz as previously mentioned, though the writing had a lot to do with this. Finally, this last complaint can be applied to many popcorn flicks nowadays. The constant joke attempts that were swings and misses, while also being completely obvious were terrible. Why must every blockbuster have this nonsense now? Ugh.

As an overall film, The Legend of Tarzan is a bit messy. However, its fresh take and status as complete eye candy visually more than make this live action take on the classic story worthwhile.… Expand