Disney
has returned in a big way, with an animated take on Edgar Rice Burroughs' famed
story. Aside from Toy Story and The Lion King, this is the best animated feature
of the decade--soaring with a story that will touch both children and adults,
without insulting the intelligence of either.
Tarzan
uses the best of both worlds by integrating both traditional and computer animation
to create a visual masterpiece. Adding to the experience is a tremendous vocal
talent that includes Tony Goldwyn as Tarzan, Minnie Driver as Jane (the films
best vocal work), Glenn Close as Kala, and Lance Henriksen as Kerchak.
Although
the film does have it's share of sugar coating, it also touches on serious themes
like the death of loved-ones and racism. Tarzan also benefits from Phil Collins'
songs that never seem to be intrusive, usually a problem in Disney movies. In
a summer full of The Force and International Men of Mystery, Tarzan is a pleasant
diversion. It's also clearly one of the years best films.
