Tarzan in Manhattan

Tarzan in Manhattan is an offbeat 1989 action-adventure television film that elegantly blends the inherent wilderness of the iconic jungle hero Tarzan with the bustling urban environment of Manhattan. Directed by Michael Schultz, the film boasts a diverse cast including Joe Lara as the titular Tarzan, Kim Crosby as Jane, and accomplished actor Tony Curtis.

Joe Lara beautifully fills in the shoes of the legendary character Tarzan, offering a perfect mix of the raw power of the wild man and the gentle, humane qualities of the character. Lara brings out the childlike innocence and primal instincts of Tarzan into the urban wilderness. Using a more humanistic representation than a conventional Tarzan tale, Lara's enactment makes audiences recognize a side of Tarzan rarely seen in previous adaptations.

The film's plot evolves as Tarzan leaves his African jungle home to trace the whereabouts of his friend Kala, an ape she considers family, who was captured by hunters and sold to the highest bidder in the world of exotic pets in the United States. Arriving in New York, Tarzan meets the fast-talking taxi driver Jane Porter, played vivaciously by Kim Crosby. Jane is a strong, independent character that aids Tarzan in adapting to city life while assisting him on his quest. Their camaraderie forms the crux of the film.

James Medina, as the villainous hunter and exotic pet trader who kidnapped Kala, adds an element of malevolence. His portrayal of a heartless antagonist is convincing and invokes sympathy for the innocent animals that fall victim to this shady business.

Tarzan in Manhattan is essentially a narrative of two distinctive extremes. The visual contrast between the lush African jungle and the concrete island of Manhattan reflect the contrast in the way of life in these places. The portrayal of Tarzan adapting to the urban jungle brings about some comedic, insightful, and poignant scenes. The film goes beyond just the traditional adventure storyline to critically explore themes such as commercialization, exploitation of wildlife, human encroachment into animal territories, and the stark difference between natural and man-made domains.

One of the merits of 'Tarzan in Manhattan' is the adept cinematography. The contrasts between the vast open spaces of the wild and the tight, chaotic, and bustling alleys of Manhattan provide a stark visual duality that makes for a compelling film narrative. The thematic elements of the story are realistically portrayed by the director who utilizes these stark contrasts to enhance the story's intensity and highlight the diasporas of Tarzan.

Moreover, the film doesn’t shy away from imbuing comedic elements into its narrative. The cultural clash and misunderstandings between the urban Manhattan lifestyle and Tarzan’s uncivilized way of living often results in a juxtaposing humorous setup. It helps in lightening the facts while bolstering the storyline.

The action sequences are well choreographed with Tarzan using his primal jungle skills in an urban setting. These sequences are spread out evenly throughout the film, facilitating an entertaining and dynamic pace which keeps the viewers engrossed.

Within the film's 93-minutes run time, the plot unfolds crisply, making sure that the narrative is never derailed. The character development of Tarzan from a wild jungle dweller to an adapted city man is not rushed. Still, it cautiously evolves with each encounter and experience, making it believable and enjoyable.

In conclusion, 'Tarzan in Manhattan' is a delightfully unconventional take on the celebrated jungle character that portrays his transformation in an urban backdrop. With a commendable performance by Joe Lara and an engaging story, this memorable film offers a unique blend of adventure, action, and human compassion. It is worth watching for those who enjoy unorthodox adaptations of classic characters and compelling storylines touching social issues.