Tarzan the Ape Man Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of "Tarzan the Ape Man" on Blu-ray demonstrates a meticulous restoration from Warner Archive, based on a 4K scan of the preservation elements. This is rooted in a fine-grain master positive crafted from the original nitrate negative, with some portions substituted by a dupe negative due to damage. As expected with such historical restorations, image clarity varies, ranging from crisply textured scenes to noticeably softer ones. However, viewers will appreciate that even the less impressive segments maintain clean encoding, with film grain consistently present throughout the film, lending an authentic and historically respectful presentation. The dual-layered disc's high bit rate expertly circumvents compression-related artifacts, ensuring a fluid viewing experience.

The transfer, offered in 1080p/AVC MPEG-4, delivers a visually gratifying result. While the inherent grain and slightly bright imagery typical of early 1930s films might be noticeable, they do not detract from the overall quality. The disc exhibits commendable clarity and contrast, featuring deep blacks, robust whites, and nuanced grays that collectively render a picture rich in depth. The heightened detail does render the rear-projection shots more conspicuous, though this is a minor trade-off for such a refined visual presentation. Additionally, close-ups are exceptionally sharp, with any imperfections like nicks or scratches meticulously removed, highlighting the painstaking effort invested in restoring this cinematic classic to a remarkable standard for its time.

Ultimately, while "Tarzan the Ape Man" might not reach the pinnacle of Warner Archive's finest outputs due to its natural limitations and historical context, it indisputably stands as an impressive and elegant testament to the era's cinematic artistry.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 mono track for the Blu-ray of "Tarzan the Ape Man" effectively recreates the soundscape of the jungle, providing both robust and atmospheric audio. The auditory experience is enhanced by vivid sonic accents such as the iconic Tarzan yodel, thundering drums, and dramatic rifle shots, which project forcefully through the speakers. Additionally, more nuanced sounds like chirping birds and ape squeaks contribute to an immersive environment. The dynamic scale is competent enough to manage these sound effects comfortably, though minor surface noise is occasionally noticeable during quieter scenes.

Dialogue clarity presents some challenges in this audio mix, often masked by the dense jungle soundscape and powerful effects. This is especially evident in early dialogue scenes where discernibility is compromised, necessitating the use of optional English (SDH) subtitles. While these subtitles are beneficial for understanding exchanges marred by the original primitive recording equipment, their presentation in a closed-caption style, featuring black bars behind white text, may appear visually obtrusive to some viewers. Warner Archive's restoration maintains the audio's limited dynamic range effectively without introducing distortion at higher frequencies, preserving its historical character while offering an enhanced listening experience.

The Blu-ray release of "Tarzan the Ape Man" captivates with a robust collection of extras that enhance its value for both aficionados of classic cinema and Tarzan enthusiasts. Highlighted by a comprehensive 2004 documentary, "Tarzan: Silver Screen King of the Jungle", this feature delves into the expansive legacy of the Tarzan franchise with insights from notable figures like film historian Rudy Behlmer and other experts. The disc also includes two historically significant Merrie Melodies cartoons, both restored in HD, offering a delightful glimpse into early animation styles despite some applied noise reduction. Additionally, the vintage theatrical trailer provides an authentic promotional context. These elements together enrich the viewing experience, blending nostalgic charm with informative content.

Extras included in this disc:

• Tarzan: Silver Screen King of the Jungle: An extensive documentary exploring the franchise's legacy.
• I Wish I Had Wings: A 1932 Merrie Melodies cartoon about a chick's flight attempt.
• Moonlight for Two: A 1932 Merrie Melodies short featuring a rowdy barn dance encounter.
• Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional piece for "Tarzan, the Ape Man."

"Tarzan, the Ape Man" is a noteworthy entry in Golden Age cinema, not only for introducing Edgar Rice Burroughs' iconic character to sound-era audiences but also for its surprising pre-Code violence. Directed by W.S. Van Dyke, this 1932 classic represents a simpler, albeit somewhat dated, interpretation of the Tarzan mythology. Despite its age, the film remains a significant piece of cinematic history that set the stage for later epics like "King Kong." The movie's narrative follows British explorers James Parker and Harry Holt, whose interactions with the African locale reflect outdated racial and ethnic views. Their expedition takes an unexpected turn with Jane Parker's arrival, providing a more sympathetic angle amidst their exploitative endeavors.

The immersion into the jungle brings both peril and wonder, including encounters with wildlife and the legendary Tarzan, portrayed by Johnny Weissmuller in the first of his 12 portrayals. Weissmuller's performance, defined by his commanding presence and athleticism, effectively transforms him into the quintessential cinematic Tarzan, though it eschews his origin story. The interplay between Tarzan and Jane forms the emotional core of the film, depicting her progression from captive to willing participant in his primitive existence, a narrative choice that captured Depression-era romantic fantasies.

Technically, "Tarzan, the Ape Man" benefits from Warner Archive's Blu-ray release, which spotlights its cinematography and visual elements despite revealing some aged effects. The film cleverly repurposes footage from "Trader Horn," enhancing its adventurous authenticity. While some scenes are marred by the period's insensitivities, Tarzan balances thrilling wildlife sequences against its simplistic plot. The screenwriting, courtesy of Ivor Novello, may show its age, yet performances by Maureen O'Sullivan as Jane and Neil Hamilton as Harry lend depth to their roles. Ultimately, Weissmuller's portrayal solidly anchors this foundational installment, which continues to resonate nearly a century later.

"Tarzan the Ape Man" remains a quintessential piece of early cinema that has stood the test of time with its unique combination of an invigorating adventure narrative and romance. Johnny Weissmuller's performance as Tarzan is complemented by the dynamic chemistry with Maureen O'Sullivan's Jane, offering a mix of excitement and tenderness that transcends its vintage facade. The film's ability to evoke thrill through its pre-Code era audacity and era-specific travelogue footage is notable, although some cultural aspects do feel dated. Nevertheless, these elements contribute to its classic allure.

The Warner Archive's Blu-ray edition revives this nearly century-old film with appreciable technical enhancements. Utilizing a new HD master from a 4K scan of the preservation elements, the visual fidelity is commendable, despite minor constraints of the primitive audio infrastructure. The disc is enriched by a thoughtful selection of bonus features, augmenting the value offered to both aficionados of classic cinema and new viewers intrigued by the legendary character of Tarzan. These extras provide insightful context, enriching the overall experience of revisiting this cinematic landmark.

In conclusion, the Blu-ray release of "Tarzan the Ape Man" serves as a laudable showcase of early filmmaking combined with a modern touch that ensures its preservation for future generations. This release not only pays homage to its foundational roots in cinematic history but also engages contemporary audiences. It is a highly recommended acquisition for anyone seeking to explore or revisit this thrilling adventure with its vibrant legacy and timeless performance that continues to resonate.