Watch Tarzan of the Apes

In 1918, Tarzan of the Apes was brought to life on the big screen in a stunning adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs' classic novel. The silent film, directed by Scott Sidney, tells the story of Tarzan, a man who was raised by apes in the African jungle. Played by Elmo Lincoln, Tarzan is a wild and fearless creature, who lives in harmony with the animals of the jungle. However, his peaceful existence is disrupted when a group of white explorers arrive in the jungle. Among them is Jane Porter (Enid Markey), who captures Tarzan's attention and eventually wins his heart.

The film is split into two distinct parts. The first half follows Tarzan's upbringing in the jungle, establishing his connection to the apes and his unorthodox learning process. The audience is shown the moment when Tarzan's parents are killed by a tribe of natives, leaving him to be raised by a mother ape. As he grows, he learns how to swing from vines, communicate with animals, and hunt for food.

The second half of the film revolves around Jane's arrival in the jungle and the romance that blossoms between her and Tarzan. Tarzan saves Jane from harm on multiple occasions, and the two eventually fall in love. However, their love is not without its challenges. Tarzan must come to terms with his own identity as a man raised by apes, while Jane must navigate her own feelings and her relationship with her fiancé back in America. The tension between Tarzan and Jane's fiancé comes to a head in a thrilling climax that sees Tarzan fighting off a group of angry natives.

One of the film's distinctive features is its use of real animals rather than special effects. The filmmakers went to great lengths to capture shots of animals that would allow the audience to connect with Tarzan's world. From shots of real lions and elephants to close-ups of Tarzan and his simian family, Tarzan of the Apes creates a world that feels tangible and immersive.

Another standout aspect of the film is Elmo Lincoln's performance as Tarzan. Lincoln's strong build and commanding presence allow him to portray both the savage and vulnerable sides of the character. Throughout the film, he communicates through grunts and animalistic movements, a portrayal that still holds up nearly a century later.

Enid Markey also stands out as Jane Porter, bringing a sense of grace and composure to the character amidst the chaos of the jungle. True Boardman delivers a convincing performance as the jealous fiancé, adding a new layer of tension to the film.

Overall, Tarzan of the Apes is an exciting adventure that captures the magic of the jungle and the enduring appeal of one of literature's greatest heroes. The film's use of real animals and strong performances from its leads make it a must-see for lovers of classic cinema.

Tarzan of the Apes is a 1918 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 1 minute. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8.