TARZAN IN MANHATTAN

Cinemavixion Review

Michael Schultz's "Tarzan in Manhattan" offers a decidedly unconventional take on the jungle hero, transplanting him from his familiar arboreal domain to the concrete labyrinth of New York City. This 1989 television film, starring Joe Lara as a surprisingly capable Tarzan, reimagines the wild man's quest as a mission to rescue his chimpanzee companion, Cheetah, from nefarious animal experimentation. The narrative cleverly pairs Tarzan with Jane, a street-smart cab driver portrayed by Kim Crosby, forging an unlikely but effective partnership. While the film may not boast the epic scope of its cinematic predecessors, it provides an engaging adventure with moments of charm and a unique cultural clash. The presence of veteran actors like Tony Curtis adds a touch of Hollywood polish to this distinctively urban jungle tale, making it a curious and enjoyable deviation from the Tarzan legend.