Dacie Buell

Written by Dacie Buell

Modified & Updated: 10 May 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

47-facts-about-the-movie-greystoke-the-legend-of-tarzan

Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan is a captivating film that brings the beloved character of Tarzan to life in a whole new way. Released in 1984, this epic adventure movie takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the jungles of Africa. Directed by Hugh Hudson and starring Christopher Lambert as Tarzan, Greystoke delves deep into the origins of the iconic hero, exploring his childhood and upbringing in the wild. With its stunning cinematography, gripping storytelling, and magnificent performances, this film has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. In this article, we have compiled 47 fascinating facts about Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the making of this cinematic masterpiece.

Key Takeaways:

  • Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan is a visually stunning and critically acclaimed film that explores Tarzan’s journey from the jungle to civilization, sparking a resurgence of interest in the iconic character.
  • The movie’s immersive storytelling, breathtaking cinematography, and emotional depth make it a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences and inspire a new generation of Tarzan fans.
Table of Contents

The movie was released in 1984.

Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan swung into theaters in the summer of 1984, captivating audiences with its stunning visuals and compelling storytelling.

Christopher Lambert portrayed Tarzan.

The role of Tarzan was brought to life by French actor Christopher Lambert, who is widely known for his captivating performances.

The film was directed by Hugh Hudson.

Hugh Hudson, best known for his work on the acclaimed film Chariots of Fire, directed Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan.

It is based on the novel Tarzan of the Apes.

Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan is adapted from Edgar Rice Burroughs’ iconic novel, Tarzan of the Apes, which tells the story of a man raised by apes in the African jungle.

The film explores Tarzan’s journey from the jungle to civilization.

Unlike many previous Tarzan adaptations, Greystoke delves deeper into Tarzan’s story, depicting his transition from his wild upbringing to his introduction to human society.

The movie received critical acclaim.

Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan garnered widespread praise from critics, who hailed its lush cinematography, immersive storytelling, and Lambert’s compelling portrayal of the iconic character.

It was nominated for three Academy Awards.

The film earned nominations for Best Actor in a Supporting Role, Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, and Best Makeup at the 57th Academy Awards.

The cinematography is breathtaking.

The movie features stunning cinematography capturing the beauty of the African landscapes and the lush jungle that served as Tarzan’s home.

The role of Jane Porter was played by Andie MacDowell.

Andie MacDowell, known for her roles in films like Groundhog Day, perfectly embodied the intelligent and spirited character of Jane Porter.

The film delves into Tarzan’s struggle with identity.

Greystoke explores Tarzan’s internal conflict as he straddles between his wild roots and the expectations of society, providing a deeper exploration of his character.

The movie’s soundtrack was composed by John Scott.

The sweeping and emotional score of Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan was composed by the renowned John Scott, adding to the film’s epic feel.

The movie was shot in various locations.

The production of Greystoke took the cast and crew to several breathtaking locations, including the rainforests of Cameroon, Scotland, and England.

It was a box office success.

The film performed well at the box office, further solidifying the enduring popularity of the timeless Tarzan story.

Greystoke introduced a more realistic portrayal of Tarzan.

Unlike previous portrayals, this film aimed to depict Tarzan in a more grounded and believable manner, emphasizing his struggles with assimilating into society.

The screenplay was written by Robert Towne.

Acclaimed writer Robert Towne penned the screenplay for Greystoke, infusing the story with depth and emotional resonance.

The movie explores themes of nature and civilization.

Greystoke raises profound questions about the dichotomy between the simplicity and beauty of nature and the complexities of human civilization.

The production design brings the world of Tarzan to life.

The elaborate and meticulously crafted sets and costumes transport viewers into the untamed world of Tarzan and the exotic locations he encounters.

The film’s success spawned Tarzan’s resurgence in pop culture.

Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan revitalized interest in the legendary character, paving the way for a resurgence of Tarzan adaptations in various mediums.

The movie explores the bond between Tarzan and his ape family.

Greystoke delves into the deep emotional connection between Tarzan and the apes who raised him, portraying their bond with sensitivity and authenticity.

The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast.

In addition to Christopher Lambert and Andie MacDowell, the movie features notable actors such as Ralph Richardson, Ian Holm, and Sir Ian Charleson.

The costumes were meticulously researched.

The costume designers painstakingly researched the attire of the time period and the cultural influences on the characters, bringing authenticity to the film.

The movie emphasizes environmental conservation.

Greystoke highlights the importance of preserving the natural world and raises awareness about the consequences of human interference in the ecosystem.

The film received praise for its realistic portrayal of Tarzan’s animal companions.

The way the movie incorporates the animals into the story, showcasing their behavior and interactions, adds to the authenticity and immersive nature of the film.

The movie features breathtaking aerial shots.

The sweeping aerial shots in Greystoke offer a stunning perspective of the vast African landscapes and the vastness of Tarzan’s jungle home.

The film tackles themes of colonialism and imperialism.

Greystoke raises questions about the impact of colonialism and imperialism on indigenous cultures and the moral complexities behind them.

The movie’s release had a significant cultural impact.

Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan ignited discussions about identity, cultural appropriation, and representation in Hollywood, contributing to a larger cultural dialogue.

The film seamlessly blends adventure and drama.

Greystoke successfully combines breathtaking action sequences with profound emotional moments, creating a captivating viewing experience.

The movie’s screenplay went through revisions.

Robert Towne’s original script for Greystoke was revised by Michael Austin to further develop the film’s characters and strengthen the narrative.

The film was a passion project for Hugh Hudson.

Hugh Hudson was deeply passionate about bringing this version of Tarzan to the screen and devoted years to its development.

The movie examines the clash between different cultures.

Greystoke highlights the clash between the Western colonial mindset and the indigenous cultures it encounters, questioning notions of power and dominance.

The film’s title pays homage to Tarzan’s ancestral home.

The film takes its name from Greystoke Manor, Tarzan’s ancestral home in England, which plays a significant role in the story.

The movie’s visual effects were groundbreaking at the time.

Greystoke utilized innovative visual effects techniques to seamlessly blend footage of real animals with trained performers, creating a sense of realism.

The film explores the complexities of human nature.

Through Tarzan’s journey, Greystoke delves into the complexities of human nature, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the innate connection to the natural world.

The movie’s marketing campaign was extensive.

The release of Greystoke was accompanied by an extensive marketing campaign, including trailers, posters, and promotional events, generating widespread buzz.

The film’s costume design reflects the era.

The costumes in Greystoke were meticulously designed to reflect the fashion of the late 19th century, adding an authentic touch to the film’s visuals.

The movie portrays Tarzan’s struggles with language.

Greystoke explores Tarzan’s difficulties in learning human language and communication, emphasizing the challenges he faces as he adapts to society.

The film features amazing animal performances.

The trained animal performers in Greystoke deliver remarkable and believable performances, adding depth and authenticity to the story.

The movie incorporates elements of both adventure and romance.

Greystoke masterfully combines thrilling adventure sequences with a heartfelt romance, providing a well-rounded and emotionally engaging viewing experience.

The film explores the consequences of human intrusion in nature.

Greystoke raises awareness about the destructive impact of human activities on the delicate balance of nature and highlights the importance of conservation.

The movie features breathtaking production design.

The production design of Greystoke beautifully brings the world of Tarzan to life, immersing viewers in a lush and vibrant jungle setting.

The film’s success sparked interest in Edgar Rice Burroughs’ works.

Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan introduced a new generation of viewers to the literature of Edgar Rice Burroughs, inspiring them to explore his other iconic works.

The movie’s runtime is approximately 143 minutes.

Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan offers viewers a substantial and immersive cinematic experience with its two-hour and twenty-three-minute runtime.

The film’s screenplay stays close to the source material.

Greystoke remains faithful to the essence of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ Tarzan stories, capturing the spirit and adventure of the original novels.

The movie’s editing enhances the storytelling.

The expert editing in Greystoke seamlessly weaves together different narrative threads, enhancing the emotional impact of the film’s key moments.

The film’s depiction of the relationship between Tarzan and Jane is emotionally nuanced.

Greystoke delves into the complex dynamics of Tarzan and Jane’s relationship, portraying their deep emotional connection and the challenges they face.

The movie’s sound design creates an immersive experience.

Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan immerses viewers in its world through its meticulously crafted sound design, capturing the rich sounds of the jungle and the human world.

The legacy of Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan lives on.

Even decades after its release, Greystoke continues to captivate audiences and remains a significant entry in the pantheon of Tarzan adaptations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan is a film that has stood the test of time. Its unique take on the classic character of Tarzan, coupled with its impressive cinematography and gripping narrative, has cemented its place in movie history. Whether you’re a fan of adventure, romance, or simply appreciate a well-made movie, Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan is a must-watch. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and immerse yourself in this extraordinary tale of lost identity, love, and the epic jungle adventures of Tarzan.

FAQs

Q: Who directed the movie Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan?

A: The movie was directed by Hugh Hudson.

Q: When was Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan released?

A: The film was released in 1984.

Q: What makes Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan a unique adaptation of the Tarzan character?

A: The movie takes a different approach to the Tarzan story, focusing on Tarzan’s struggle with his identity and his journey to reclaim his birthright.

Q: Did the movie receive any awards or nominations?

A: Yes, Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan received several nominations, including three Academy Award nominations.

Q: Who played the role of Tarzan in the film?

A: Christopher Lambert portrayed the character of Tarzan in the movie.

Q: Where was Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan filmed?

A: The film was shot in various locations, including Scotland and Gabon.

Q: Is Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan suitable for all ages?

A: While the movie is generally family-friendly, it does contain some intense scenes and themes that may not be suitable for very young children.

Q: Is Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan based on a book?

A: Yes, the movie is based on the novel “Tarzan of the Apes” by Edgar Rice Burroughs.

Q: How did the movie Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan perform at the box office?

A: The film was a commercial success, grossing over $45 million worldwide.

Q: Are there any sequels or spin-offs of Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan?

A: No, there were no official sequels or spin-offs made for this specific movie.

Q: Does the film showcase the iconic Tarzan yell?

A: Yes, the movie features the iconic Tarzan yell that has become synonymous with the character.

Q: Can I watch Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan online?

A: Yes, the movie is available for streaming on various online platforms.

Q: Does the film have a memorable musical score?

A: Yes, The Legend of Tarzan features a beautiful and haunting musical score composed by John Scott.

Q: How long is the runtime of Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan?

A: The film has a runtime of approximately 135 minutes.

Q: Is Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan predominantly an action film?

A: While the film does contain action sequences, it is more focused on character development and storytelling.

Q: Are there any notable supporting actors in the movie?

A: Yes, the film features notable performances by Andie MacDowell, Ralph Richardson, and Ian Holm.

Q: Does the movie stay true to the original Tarzan story?

A: While there are some deviations from the original story, Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan maintains the spirit and essence of the character.

Q: Can I expect visually stunning cinematography in this film?

A: Yes, the movie showcases breathtaking landscapes and visually stunning cinematography throughout.

Q: Does Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan explore deeper themes beyond just adventure?

A: Yes, the film delves into themes of identity, love, and the clash of civilizations.

Q: Is Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan a romantic film?

A: Yes, the movie does have romantic elements woven into its narrative.

Q: Can I expect a satisfying ending in Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan?

A: Without giving away spoilers, the movie concludes with a poignant and satisfying ending.

Q: Does the film use any special effects?

A: While there are some special effects used in the movie, the emphasis is more on practical effects and real-world settings.

Q: Is Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan suitable for fans of the original Tarzan stories?

A: Yes, the movie offers a fresh and compelling take on the Tarzan character while still maintaining its core essence.

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