Deconstructing the Ape-Man: A TEK Analysis of Disney’s Tarzan
The jungle drums begin, Phil Collins’ iconic soundtrack swells, and we’re swept into a world of swinging vines and breathtaking animation. Disney’s Tarzan, released in 1999, remains a beloved animated classic for many. Its stunning visuals, catchy songs, and heartwarming story of belonging continue to captivate audiences of all ages. Nostalgia plays a significant role in its enduring appeal, transporting viewers back to childhoods filled with adventure and the power of accepting found family. Yet, beyond the veneer of a thrilling jungle adventure, Disney’s Tarzan presents complexities and, arguably, problematic undertones when viewed through a modern, critical lens.
While initially celebrated for its innovative animation and emotional depth, a closer examination reveals elements of cultural appropriation, simplified characterizations, and lingering hints of colonialist narratives. To truly understand the layers beneath the surface of this seemingly innocent film, we need a framework for deeper investigation. This is where the concept of “TEK,” or Tarzan Exploration of Keys, comes into play. By applying a “Tarzan Disney TEK” approach, we can dissect the film’s underlying messages and uncover potential issues often overlooked in casual viewings. This article aims to deconstruct the Ape-Man, examining his portrayal through a critical eye, acknowledging both its merits and its potential shortcomings.
A Brief Overview of Disney’s Tarzan
Disney’s Tarzan swung into theaters amidst considerable hype, a testament to the studio’s enduring power to reimagine classic stories. Based on Edgar Rice Burroughs’ novel, the film tells the story of a British infant orphaned in the African jungle after his parents are killed by a leopard. The baby is adopted by Kala, a female gorilla, and raised as her own within a family of apes. Tarzan grows up wild, learning to navigate the jungle and embracing his ape identity, yet sensing a distinct otherness that sets him apart.
The arrival of Professor Porter, his daughter Jane, and the treacherous hunter Clayton shatters Tarzan’s isolated world. Drawn to Jane’s kindness and captivated by the shared understanding of being human, Tarzan finds himself torn between his ape family and the lure of his human heritage. Clayton, driven by greed and a desire to capture the gorillas, exploits Tarzan’s longing for connection, ultimately leading to a tragic confrontation that forces Tarzan to make a life-altering choice. Key characters like the protective Kala, the skeptical Kerchak (the gorilla leader), and Tarzan’s boisterous gorilla friend Terk, add depth and humor to the narrative, creating a richly populated jungle environment.
Applying a Critical Framework: The Keys to Understanding
To fully grasp the complexities of Disney’s Tarzan, we must dissect its core components using our “Tarzan Disney TEK” framework. This method emphasizes specific areas of focus: examining tropes and representation, analyzing environmental themes and echoes of colonialism, and identifying aspects of kingdomality and control.
Tropes and Representation: Beyond the Surface
One of the most glaring issues with Disney’s Tarzan lies in its reliance on the “noble savage” trope. Tarzan, although raised by apes, is inherently “good” and possesses a natural grace and intelligence, characteristics often associated with Western ideals. He is presented as a being untainted by civilization, living in harmony with nature, and possessing a moral purity that contrasts sharply with the perceived corruptness of the “civilized” world. This portrayal, while seemingly positive, perpetuates the harmful stereotype that non-Western cultures are somehow inherently closer to nature and morally superior in their ignorance of civilization.
Furthermore, the film raises questions about cultural appropriation. The African jungle is depicted as a generic, almost fantastical landscape, devoid of specific cultural markers or indigenous populations (aside from, perhaps, subtle hints in the music). The wildlife, while beautifully animated, becomes a simplified backdrop, lacking the nuance and complexity of the real African ecosystem. The movie essentially utilizes the African landscape as a blank canvas for Tarzan’s personal journey, neglecting to engage with the richness and diversity of the continent’s cultures and histories.
The depiction of gender roles also deserves scrutiny. Jane, while presented as an intelligent and adventurous woman, is ultimately defined by her relationship with Tarzan. Her scientific pursuits are secondary to her infatuation with the “wild man,” and her character arc revolves primarily around her adaptation to the jungle and her growing love for Tarzan. This reinforces the problematic trope of the female explorer who finds fulfillment only through romantic entanglement. Even Kala, as a mother figure, is limited by her role within the ape society, her primary purpose being to nurture and protect Tarzan.
Environmental Themes and Colonial Echoes
Disney’s Tarzan certainly promotes a strong environmental message, urging viewers to appreciate and protect the natural world. The film showcases the beauty and fragility of the jungle, highlighting the importance of preserving its delicate ecosystem. However, this environmentalism is often overshadowed by the subtle undertones of colonialism embedded in the narrative.
Clayton, the ruthless hunter, embodies the worst aspects of colonial ambition. He views the jungle as a resource to be exploited and the gorillas as trophies to be captured and displayed. His character represents the destructive force of Western intervention, driven by greed and a disregard for the indigenous inhabitants of the land. While the film condemns Clayton’s actions, the very presence of his character within the narrative highlights the lingering presence of colonial attitudes and the exploitation of natural resources.
The film also reinforces the problematic dichotomy between “savagery” and “civilization.” The apes, while presented as loving and supportive, are often depicted as unrefined and lacking the intellectual capacity of humans. Tarzan’s journey involves him bridging the gap between these two worlds, ultimately choosing to embrace his human heritage while retaining his connection to the jungle. This reinforces the notion that civilization is inherently superior to a “wild” existence, suggesting that Tarzan must ultimately transcend his ape identity to reach his full potential.
Kingdomality and Control: Examining Power Dynamics
The theme of “kingdomality,” and who reigns within a kingdom, is constantly debated throughout Disney’s Tarzan. Kerchak believes the jungle is the gorillas’, and Clayton believes it’s for humans. Tarzan is stuck between two worlds, constantly wrestling with the question, “Where do I belong?” This is also displayed in the family dynamics. Kala challenges Kerchak and takes in baby Tarzan even though the gorilla leader doesn’t agree. This power dynamic is constantly being challenged as the movie progresses.
Disney’s Tarzan brings up important questions, but can be interpreted in multiple ways.
Defense and Nuance: Acknowledging Complexity
It’s crucial to acknowledge that Disney’s Tarzan is not without its merits. The animation is groundbreaking, particularly the innovative use of “deep canvas” technology to create a sense of three-dimensional depth in the jungle scenes. Phil Collins’ soundtrack is undeniably catchy and emotionally resonant, adding significantly to the film’s overall impact. The themes of acceptance, family, and finding one’s place in the world are universally appealing and contribute to the film’s enduring popularity.
Furthermore, it’s important to consider the historical context in which the film was made. Attitudes towards cultural representation and colonialism have evolved significantly since 1999, and it’s unfair to judge the film solely by contemporary standards. It’s also vital to emphasize that interpretations of Disney’s Tarzan are subjective and vary depending on individual experiences and perspectives. Some viewers may find the film to be a harmless adventure, while others may find the problematic elements to be more pronounced.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Discussion
Disney’s Tarzan remains a captivating cinematic experience, but it’s essential to view it through a critical lens. By applying a “Tarzan Disney TEK” approach, we can uncover the film’s underlying complexities and engage in a more nuanced understanding of its messages. While the film offers moments of genuine beauty and emotional resonance, it also perpetuates problematic tropes, simplifies cultural representations, and echoes colonialist narratives.
Ultimately, the legacy of Disney’s Tarzan lies not only in its animation and soundtrack but also in the discussions it sparks about representation, cultural sensitivity, and the evolving nature of storytelling. The next time you watch Tarzan swinging through the jungle, take the time to consider the story beyond the surface, and think about the themes it presents for children to internalize. As storytellers, we can ask ourselves, “What responsibilities do we have to portray the world we live in with respect and integrity?”
