The Legend of Tarzan (2016)

“The Legend of Tarzan” reimagines the classic story of Tarzan, following the character’s return to the jungle after years of living in England as John Clayton III. Now a refined aristocrat, Tarzan (Alexander Skarsgård) is drawn back to the Congo when he learns of a nefarious plot by a Belgian captain, Léon Rom (Christoph Waltz), who is exploiting the region’s resources. With the help of his wife, Jane Porter (Margot Robbie), and an American envoy, George Washington Williams (Samuel L. Jackson), Tarzan must confront his past and save the jungle from exploitation.

David Yates, known for his work on the Harry Potter series, brings a polished and engaging style to “The Legend of Tarzan.” Alexander Skarsgård delivers a charismatic performance as the titular character, balancing Tarzan’s primal instincts with his refined, civilized persona. Margot Robbie’s portrayal of Jane Porter is strong, bringing a blend of strength and compassion to the role.

Christoph Waltz as the villainous Léon Rom provides a suitably menacing presence, though his character sometimes leans into traditional antagonist tropes. Samuel L. Jackson adds humor and depth to his role as George Washington Williams, making him a standout in the ensemble.

The film explores themes of identity, civilization versus savagery, and environmental preservation. The duality of Tarzan’s life—caught between his civilized upbringing and his primal roots—provides a compelling narrative tension. The plot intertwines his personal journey with a larger conflict over the exploitation of the Congo, adding layers of political and environmental commentary. While the story delves into these themes, it sometimes opts for conventional action and adventure elements, which can overshadow the more nuanced aspects.