The One, the Only, the Real Tarzan
The glorious and tragic story of American athlete and actor Johnny Weissmuller (1904-84), Olympic swimmer, water polo player and the only true Tarzan, an archetypal character and myth of cinema, that of the original Hollywood blockbusters (1932-48).
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary explores the enduring legend of Tarzan, tracing his origins from Edgar Rice Burroughs' novels to various adaptations in film and television. It delves into the cultural impact of the character and the primal appeal of the 'noble savage' archetype.
Critical Reception
As a documentary, 'The One, the Only, the Real Tarzan' was generally appreciated for its in-depth look at the Tarzan phenomenon and its cultural significance. Critics often highlighted its comprehensive approach, covering various iterations of the character and their respective impacts.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its thorough exploration of the Tarzan mythos.
- Appreciated for analyzing the character's lasting cultural impact.
- Seen as an informative watch for fans of the jungle hero.
Google audience: Audience reception for this documentary is not widely documented on Google reviews, but it is generally considered a solid and informative piece for those interested in the history of the Tarzan character and his place in popular culture.
Fun Fact
The documentary features extensive archival footage and interviews, aiming to provide a definitive look at the creation and evolution of the Tarzan character across different media.
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