What Tarzan in Manhattan is About
Tarzan in Manhattan, the 1989 action-adventure film, boldly reimagines the classic jungle lord's narrative by transplanting him from the familiar wilds of Africa to the bustling, unforgiving streets of New York City. The story kicks off when Tarzan, portrayed by Joe Lara, discovers his beloved chimpanzee companion, Cheetah, has been abducted, and his quest for his primate pal leads him across continents, ultimately landing him in the heart of Manhattan. Here, he quickly finds an unlikely ally in Jane Porter (Kim Crosby), a savvy private investigator's daughter who works as a cab driver, navigating the city's labyrinthine avenues with ease. Together, this unusual duo must track down an nefarious animal experimenter, whose unethical practices put Cheetah—and potentially other animals—in grave danger. It's a quintessential fish-out-of-water scenario, pitting jungle instincts against urban chaos.
Behind the Making of Tarzan in Manhattan
This unique take on the Tarzan legend wasn't originally destined for the big screen but rather for television, airing as a CBS telefilm on April 15, 1989. Directed by Michael Schultz, known for his work on Car Wash and The Last Dragon, Tarzan in Manhattan brought a distinct 80s sensibility to the classic character. The screenplay, penned by Anna Sandor and William Gough, aimed to blend the adventurous spirit of Tarzan with the contemporary urban landscape, crafting a narrative that was both familiar and startlingly fresh for its time. Producers Max A. Keller, Micheline H. Keller, and Gina Scheerer oversaw the project, ensuring it delivered on its promise of action and adventure. The casting was certainly a talking point, with relatively unknown Joe Lara stepping into the loincloth as Tarzan, while Kim Crosby took on the role of Jane Porter. What's striking, though, is the inclusion of seasoned Hollywood veterans Tony Curtis and Jan-Michael Vincent in supporting roles, adding a layer of gravitas—or perhaps just star power—to the proceedings. Curtis, a legend in his own right from films like Some Like It Hot, and Vincent, famous for Airwolf, brought recognizable faces to the ensemble, even if their roles weren't central to the jungle king's journey. It's a curious blend of emerging talent and established names.
Why Tarzan in Manhattan Still Sparks Conversation
While Tarzan in Manhattan might not boast a stellar critical reception, evidenced by its 4.1/10 IMDb rating from 561 votes, it possesses a certain undeniable charm that has allowed it to endure in the memories of those who caught its original broadcast or rediscovered it years later. Honestly, it's the sheer audacity of the premise that makes it stand out: Tarzan, clad in a suit (sometimes), hailing cabs, and navigating Times Square. This extreme culture clash provides much of the film's humor and heart, highlighting Tarzan's innate morality and strength against the backdrop of urban cynicism. Joe Lara's portrayal, while perhaps not the most nuanced, captures the raw, untamed essence of the character, making his struggle to adapt both poignant and amusing. Kim Crosby's Jane is no damsel in distress; she's a capable, independent woman who isn't afraid to get her hands dirty, offering a refreshing counterpoint to traditional portrayals. As contemporary television critics noted, "the film offered a fresh, if often cheesy, take on the classic jungle hero, bringing him face-to-face with the ultimate concrete jungle." It's a spectacle, really. The film doesn't shy away from its B-movie roots, embracing its pulpy nature and delivering exactly what its title promises: Tarzan, in Manhattan. The action sequences, while clearly of a TV movie budget, are serviceable, and the bond between Tarzan and Cheetah is genuinely central to the plot, giving the adventure an emotional anchor that helps us overlook some of its more outlandish moments.
Where to Stream Tarzan in Manhattan Online
For those eager to witness Tarzan's unconventional journey through the Big Apple, Tarzan in Manhattan is currently available for streaming on Prime Video. You'll find it listed there, ready to transport you back to 1989 for a dose of action and adventure. For a comprehensive overview of all its current streaming homes, you'll want to check the "Where to Watch" widget conveniently located at the top of this very page on Movie OTT. We're constantly tracking availability across all major platforms, so you don't have to hunt around. Whether you're a long-time fan or just curious about this peculiar take on the Tarzan mythos, accessing it today is quite straightforward. Don't miss out on this unique cinematic experience.
Frequently asked questions
Q: What is the runtime of Tarzan in Manhattan? A: Tarzan in Manhattan has a runtime of 93 minutes, making it a relatively brisk action-adventure film that's perfect for a single viewing session.
Q: Who directed the 1989 film Tarzan in Manhattan? A: The 1989 telefilm Tarzan in Manhattan was directed by Michael Schultz. He brought his distinct vision to this unique urban adaptation of the classic jungle hero.
Q: Which actors are featured in the cast of Tarzan in Manhattan? A: The cast of Tarzan in Manhattan includes Joe Lara as Tarzan, Kim Crosby as Jane, and notable supporting performances from James Medina, Jan-Michael Vincent, Tony Curtis, Joe Seneca, and Peter Sherayko.
Q: Where can I stream Tarzan in Manhattan right now? A: You can currently stream Tarzan in Manhattan on Prime Video. Check the Movie OTT platform for the most up-to-date streaming availability.
Who Should Watch Tarzan in Manhattan?
If you're a fan of quirky 80s television movies, cult classics, or just an offbeat take on a well-known character, Tarzan in Manhattan is definitely worth a watch. It's not a prestige picture, nor does it pretend to be; it's pure, unadulterated escapism with a delightful premise. This film is perfect for a nostalgic evening or for anyone curious to see how a jungle hero fares against the concrete jungle. It’s a fun, albeit flawed, adventure. Our team at Movie OTT thinks it’s a fascinating footnote in the Tarzan cinematic universe, offering a refreshingly different perspective on a character we thought we knew so well. Give it a shot.
