Tarzan's Greatest Adventure

Tarzan’s Greatest Adventure (1959), is a delightful entry into the impressive Tarzan filmography that superbly captures the essence and spirit of Edgar Rice Burroughs original creation. This British-made adventure film, released by Paramount Pictures, had Gordon Scott wrestling with the dangers of the jungle in his 5th portrayal of Tarzan after succeeding Lex Barker in the film series. Directed by the illustrious John Guillermin, the production is accompanied by a mesmerizing screenplay penned by Les Crutchfield, Berne Giler, and John Guillermin himself. Alongside Scott, the film boasts an ensemble cast featuring the incredibly talented Anthony Quayle and Sara Shane.

Tarzan's Greatest Adventure cleverly detours from the traditional setup of Tarzan films. It offers more than just mindless action and perilous stunts, taking the audience on a rugged journey through the African jungles, pushing the envelope with its compelling narrative and captivating performances. Scott's portrayal of Tarzan is distinct and mature. He speaks fluent English and presents a more sophisticated and intelligent version of the jungle hero, which sharply contrasts with the monosyllabic, vine-swinging image often portrayed in previous Tarzan films.

The film opens with the scenario of an audacious diamond theft from a mine, leading a relentless Tarzan on a trail to hunt down the perpetrators. Progressing, the movie unearths Tarzan’s relentless mission as he tracks down a group of despicable criminals led by the evil Slade, played to perfection by Anthony Quayle. The group includes a diverse mix of personas, each more intriguing than the last, adding a fascinating dynamic to the narrative. Tarzan's journey brings him face-to-face with numerous challenges, testifying to his superior grip over the wild and showcasing the moral fabric of his character.

Anthony Quayle's Slade is a memorable antagonist whose ruthlessness perfectly offsets Tarzan's nobility. The palpable tension between him and Tarzan adds a thrilling edge to the film. The film’s visual treatment of Slade's gang members, each with their unique quirks and faults, offers audiences a profound exploration of character behavior, rarely seen in adventure films of the era.

Considering its time of production, the movie offers some spectacular action sequences which are beautifully choreographed and have earned their place in the annals of adventure films. The film also breaks away from the formulaic inclusion of animals as mere props in a jungle adventure, making the animals breathe life into the scenes and play a significant role in the plot. The seamlessness with which these sequences have been crafted, bring you thrillingly close to the rich flavor of African wildlife.

Playing the leading lady, Angie, is the resplendent Sara Shane, offering a touch of romance and beauty to the movie painting a broader canvas to the film. She is not the typical damsel in distress one would have expected earlier but a brave woman who can hold her own in an adventure saga with class and style. Angie’s character dovetails seamlessly into the storyline, and her chemistry with Tarzan paints arcs of love and intimacy.

The location selection with its lush landscapes, mighty rivers, and dense jungles add to the film’s authenticity and immersive quality. The splendid camera work by Edward Scaife elegantly captures the wild beauty of the African jungles and the exhilarating danger that resides within. The film's realistic approach extends to its explicit action sequences, including a notable crocodile wrestling scene and nerve-wracking cliff jumps.

The film features original music by Douglas Gamley, which complements the strong narrative perfectly. His scores delve effortlessly into the heart of the film's dramatic moments, arousing an evocative sense of adventure that lures the audience into Tarzan's perilous world.

In conclusion, Tarzan's Greatest Adventure presents the iconic character in a mature, honorable, intelligent light, preserving his quintessential physical prowess and heroic spirit. The efficacious performances, the gripping narrative, and the daring undertones of adventure makes this film a must-watch for classic adventure enthusiasts. Today, this classic can be enjoyed for its bravura adventure elements, quality performances and for its unique place as a groundbreaking venture that redefined the representation of Tarzan on the silver screen.