Tarzan II

Tarzan II, an animated family adventure-comedy, is a direct-to-video midquel to the 1999 Walt Disney Feature Animation film, "Tarzan.” The motion picture of 2005 is directed by Brian Smith, emphasizing the vivid scenes and lush tropical landscapes that fans of the initial movie have come to know and love.

The movie takes a look into the growing years of the baby boy who was lost in the African jungle and tied to the family of gorillas. The narrative dives into the formative years of the young Tarzan, voiced by Harrison Chad. It concentrates on the period where Tarzan struggles to fit in with his gorilla kin, trying to figure out where he actually belongs. This part of Tarzan's life was merely touched upon in the first movie but Tarzan II provides an extensive exploration of it, fleshing out a significant piece of his backstory, giving the character more depth and reshaping the audience's understanding of the origins of this well-loved jungle hero.

The story begins with a young Tarzan feeling like he doesn't quite fit in with his family because of his distinct physical attributes that makes him feel rather human than a gorilla. He is motivated to venture on his own in the most treacherous parts of the jungle, where he meets new faces, forging friendships and relationships that help him grow into the stalwart heir of the jungle he is destined to be. His adventure instantly shifts into high gear as he encounters an array of enchanting forest creatures and proof of human existence, leading him to reconcile his dual nature as a man and as an ape.

Lending their vocal talents to deepen the personas in Tarzan II are notable stars such as George Carlin, who voices Zugor, a crotchety old hermit ape who has lost his place in the troop and becomes an unexpected mentor to the young Tarzan, and Brad Garrett, who gives life to Uto, one of the idiotic gorilla brothers. Ron Perlman plays the menacing role of Kago, Uto’s more domineering brother. The inclusion of these comedians in the cast upholds an atmosphere that smoothly goes from jovial to poignant moments, and back.

The visual spectacle of Tarzan II is quite prominent and graspable with the film expanding the sights and sounds of the jungle that's its setting. The animation successfully emulates the original while also creating its own distinct character and charm. Its aesthetics perfectly blend the vibrant and ominous sides of the jungle, just as the story plays between the idealistic exploration of the protagonist and the harsh realities of his surroundings.

In terms of music, the film retains the original’s vibe with Phil Collins coming back to provide some songs. While not as expansive as the first Tarzan movie's soundtrack, Tarzan II's music is just as emotionally resonating and pleasing, setting the ambiance that is unmistakably Tarzan.

One of the essential aspects of Tarzan II is its exploration of identity and belonging — a theme that most spectators can resonate with. It showcases the importance of self-discovery and acceptance. Through a variety of intriguing encounters, Tarzan gradually comprehends that the most important thing about oneself is not where one proceeds from but who one chooses to become.

Tarzan II offers an enticing experience for both children and adults, with its colorful animation, engaging story ebbing and flowing between comical and contemplative times, and moments that tug at the heartstrings. It serves as an enjoyable companion to the original, spotlighting the phase of Tarzan's life that has been largely uncharted in earlier films. Furthermore, it grants a satisfactory continuation of the Tarzan tale for those who simply can't get enough of this classic story.