Tarzan's Savage Fury

Tarzan's Savage Fury, directed by Cyril Endfield and released in 1952, is an American adventure film that carries forward the legend of Tarzan. The film stars Lex Barker appearing for the fourth time as Sir Edgar Rice Burroughs' iconic jungle hero 'Tarzan', and weaves a glamorous tale of thrill, betrayal, and jungle adventure around him.

Barker's Tarzan assumes a more refined persona in this film, bearing more semblance to the original character penned by Burroughs. Simultaneously, he successfully continues to carry the tough, raw image of Tarzan from the previous movies in the series, building up a character that is both charismatic and gripping.

Dorothy Hart plays the role of Jane with a grace and sensuality that befits her character well. She remains Tarzan's love interest, and her dynamic with Barker, both passionate and heartfelt, forms one of the core elements of the movie. Her on-screen enchantment adds depth and charm to Jane as a character, wonderfully complementing Barker's Tarzan.

Patric Knowles plays the role of the deceptive Rokov, a role he sinks into with excellent acting prowess. His portrayal of a grim, calculated impostor stirs up the anxieties that create the film's tension, making his character truly memorable.

The storyline of Tarzan's Savage Fury involves the classic jungle setting unique to the Tarzan series. The movie oscillates around the theme of deception. The duplicitous Rokov (Patric Knowles), disguises himself as Tarzan's longstanding brother, anxious to lead him on a perilous expedition into the heart of the African jungles. The reason behind this intrigue stems from Rokov’s ulterior motives that revolve around securing a hidden fortune in diamonds. The plot thickens as Tarzan is drawn into his scheme, unknowingly putting himself and Jane in grave danger. It engrosses the viewer in a thrilling narrative and creates a gripping suspense that holds audiences attention throughout.

The writers infuse an element of emotion into the plot, with an entertaining blend of adventure and drama. The movie thus has the perfect blend of Tarzan's raw strength and agility, with his ability to communicate and command respect from jungle animals, as well Joseph Vitale's character - the elephant Tolongo - a scene-stealer that adds comedy and light-hearted moments to the film.

Tarzan's Savage Fury, has some of the essential components of Tarzan movies, such as Tarzan's iconic yell and encounters with jungle beasts, which, to this very day, remain enchanting and unique. Director Cyril Endfield has done an excellent job in keeping the movie’s narrative intense and compelling, at the same time showcasing Africa's wilderness with stunning cinematography.

The film delay due to various reasons manifest in a more streamlined storyline, thereby avoiding unnecessary side affairs that often punctuated the older films from the series. This makes for 'Tarzan's Savage Fury' a more focused, tight adventure, with every scene contributing to the overarching narrative.

Cyril Endfield brings an added degree of imagination and visual flair to this Tarzan installment, creating a series of memorable and beautifully shot sequences. The cinematography captures Africa's spectacular beauty, both terrifying and seductive in its splendor, amplifying the film's thrilling narrative.

The movie's soundtrack adds another exciting layer to its appeal. It consists of themes that embrace the majestic power of Africa and build the adventurous spirit and suspenseful sequences in the film.

Overall, the film's capable cast, adventurous plot, and striking cinematography make it a worthwhile entry into the Tarzan series. Even as the fourth Tarzan film featuring Barker, it impresses viewers with a fresh and engaging storyline, crafted with suspense, thrill, and excitement. Tarzan's Savage Fury presents an energetic and suspenseful journey into the heart of Africa, maintaining the legend and essence of 'Tarzan'. It's a must-watch for adventure-enthusiasts and fans of the famed jungle hero.