Tarzan & Jane (2002) Review – A Compilation of Adventures with a Romantic Touch

Introduction

Released in 2002, Tarzan & Jane is an animated sequel to Disney’s 1999 hit Tarzan. Directed by Steve Loter and written by John Behnke, Rob Humphrey, and Jim Peterson, the film serves as a follow-up to Tarzan and Jane’s life after marriage. Unlike its predecessor, this sequel is presented as a collection of short episodes rather than a continuous narrative, leading to a mix of adventure, romance, and lighthearted humor. While the film may not reach the heights of the original, it still offers an enjoyable experience for younger audiences and fans of the Tarzan franchise.

Plot Summary

The story takes place a year after Tarzan (voiced by Michael T. Weiss) and Jane (voiced by Olivia d’Abo) have settled into their life together in the jungle. As their first wedding anniversary approaches, Jane reflects on their past adventures, recounting three separate tales in an attempt to plan a special celebration for Tarzan.

1. London Visitors: Jane’s friends from London arrive in the jungle, bringing with them a taste of her former life. However, they soon find themselves in peril, and Tarzan must rescue them, reinforcing the contrast between Jane’s past and present.
2. Diamond Thieves: When a pair of criminals attempts to steal precious jewels from the jungle, Tarzan and Jane work together to stop them, emphasizing their teamwork and growing bond.
3. Escape from a Volcano: A thrilling adventure ensues when Tarzan and Jane help a friend escape from an erupting volcano, showcasing Tarzan’s bravery and Jane’s adaptability in the wild.

As Jane reflects on these moments, she realizes that every day with Tarzan is an adventure in itself, making their love story unique and fulfilling.

Character Development

Tarzan

Tarzan remains the fearless and resourceful hero, using his agility, strength, and deep connection to the jungle to protect his home and loved ones. Though his character does not undergo significant development compared to the original film, his interactions with Jane and his willingness to embrace her world add depth to his personality.

Jane Porter

Jane, ever the adventurous and spirited woman, struggles with balancing her old life with her new one in the jungle. The film highlights her adaptability and unwavering love for Tarzan, reinforcing her growth from an English aristocrat to a true jungle-dweller.

Supporting Characters

The film introduces several side characters, such as Jane’s London friends and jungle inhabitants, but they mainly serve as catalysts for Tarzan and Jane’s adventures rather than having significant arcs of their own.

Animation and Visuals

As a direct-to-video sequel, Tarzan & Jane does not match the animation quality of the 1999 original. The visuals are simplified, with noticeable differences in character designs and movement fluidity. The backgrounds remain vibrant, but the animation feels more suited for a television series than a feature film. This is likely due to the movie being a compilation of episodes from The Legend of Tarzan TV series.

Music and Soundtrack

Unlike the original film, which featured an iconic soundtrack by Phil Collins, Tarzan & Jane lacks memorable musical numbers. The absence of strong musical elements is one of the film’s weaker aspects, as the original’s music played a vital role in enhancing its emotional depth. The background score is adequate but does not stand out in any significant way.

Themes and Messages

Love and Partnership

The film emphasizes the strength of Tarzan and Jane’s relationship. Through their shared experiences, Jane realizes that their love is not defined by grand gestures but by the everyday adventures they share.

The Balance Between Two Worlds

Jane’s struggle with her past and present life is a recurring theme. Her journey reflects the idea that embracing change and new experiences can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.

Courage and Heroism

Each of the film’s stories showcases Tarzan’s bravery and quick thinking, reinforcing his role as the protector of the jungle and those he loves.

Reception and Legacy

Tarzan & Jane received mixed reviews from both critics and audiences. While some appreciated the continuation of Tarzan and Jane’s story, others criticized the film’s episodic structure and lower animation quality. Despite this, the movie found a place among young viewers and Disney enthusiasts who enjoy revisiting familiar characters.