Where to start withTarzan
5 versions · originally a book, 1914
Themes: Man vs. Nature, Civilization vs. Savagery, Foundling, Coming of Age, Primal Instincts.
Start with Tarzan (1999) — the film. Tarzan exists in 5 versions across media, beginning as a book in 1914; each is ranked below by what it does best.
Tarzan explores the primal tension between civilized human identity and the raw, untamed instincts of the deep African jungle.
✦ Most fans start here
Tarzan (1999)
The original novel
Tarzan
Edgar Rice Burroughs · Book · 1914
Tarzan (1914) is the definitive literary origin, offering a rich, suspenseful exploration of the ape-man’s psyche that serves as the essential foundation for every subsequent adaptation of Burroughs' work.
1999 film
✦ Start hereTarzan
Film · 1999
Tarzan (1999) delivers a highly acclaimed, visually vibrant animated interpretation, perfect for viewers seeking a focused, emotional narrative about the protagonist's discovery of his humanity and place in the world.
2002 film
Tarzan & Jane
Film · 2002
Tarzan & Jane (2002) functions as a lighthearted, domestic expansion of the 1999 film, best suited for those interested in the post-adventure relationship dynamics between the title characters in England.
2005 film
Tarzan II
Brian Smith · Film · 2005
Tarzan II (2005) provides a prequel perspective, focusing on the character's internal struggle and perceived inadequacies during his youth, ideal for those wanting a deeper look at his formative jungle years.
2016 film
The Legend of Tarzan
David Yates · Film · 2016
The Legend of Tarzan (2016) offers a mature, cinematic look at the character long after he has left the jungle, perfect for audiences intrigued by the complexities of his return.
Common questions
What order should I watch the Tarzan movies in?
You should start with the 1999 Tarzan movie, followed by Tarzan & Jane released in 2002. Then, watch the 2005 prequel Tarzan II. The Legend of Tarzan, released in 2016, serves as a standalone live-action feature that can be viewed at any time after the original 1999 film.
Is the 1999 Tarzan movie based on the 1914 book?
Yes, the 1999 Tarzan movie is an adaptation of the original 1914 book titled Tarzan. While the film introduces specific cinematic elements, it draws its core narrative and character origins from the source material written by Edgar Rice Burroughs at the beginning of the twentieth century.
Does Tarzan II follow the events of the 1999 Tarzan movie?
Tarzan II is a prequel to the 1999 Tarzan movie. Instead of continuing the story forward, it explores the childhood of the main character during his earlier years in the jungle, providing additional background information on his development before the events shown in the original 1999 film.
How long is the movie The Legend of Tarzan?
The Legend of Tarzan, released in 2016, is a live-action film distinct from the animated series. It presents a separate narrative arc compared to the 1999 Tarzan movie and its direct sequels, Tarzan & Jane and Tarzan II, focusing on a different point in the character's life.