The Dark Truths Behind Disney’s Tarzan: Exploring the Shadows of the Jungle
A Jungle of Assumptions: The Colonial Undertones
Is Disney’s Tarzan a simple, heartwarming tale of belonging, where a boy raised by gorillas finds his place in the world? Or does it, beneath its vibrant animation and catchy soundtrack, conceal darker and more complex themes about colonialism, cultural assumptions, and the often-troubling aspects of human nature? The Disney adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ classic story captivated audiences with its groundbreaking animation and Phil Collins’ iconic score. However, a closer examination reveals that Disney Tarzan may not be as innocent as it initially seems, and that the jungle adventure tale touches upon subjects that invite critical discussion. This article delves into the shadows of Disney’s Tarzan, exploring the underlying issues that make it a film worthy of more than just nostalgic affection.
The arrival of Clayton and his scientific expedition in the untamed African jungle sets the stage for the exploration of colonial themes. These English explorers, driven by a combination of scientific curiosity and the allure of potential profit, represent the historical forces of colonialism. Their presence isn’t merely about discovering new species or mapping uncharted territories. It’s imbued with an implicit belief in their own cultural superiority and the perceived need to “civilize” the “uncivilized.”
Clayton, the expedition’s guide, embodies this colonial mindset. He sees the jungle and its inhabitants not as intrinsically valuable, but as resources to be exploited. His primary motivation quickly shifts from scientific exploration to capturing gorillas for profit, disregarding the potential consequences for the ecosystem and the indigenous creatures. This parallels the historical exploitation of natural resources and indigenous populations during colonial expansion.
Tarzan’s fascination with Jane and the “civilized” world further underscores these undertones. His desire to emulate Jane, to learn her language and customs, suggests an inherent value judgment – that the human world is inherently superior to the gorilla society he knows. While his curiosity and yearning for connection are understandable, the film subtly implies that his ape upbringing is somehow incomplete or lacking. This can be interpreted as a reinforcement of the colonial narrative, where the “civilized” world is presented as the ideal to which all others should aspire.
Furthermore, the film operates within the framework of the “noble savage” trope. Tarzan, despite being raised by gorillas, possesses an innate sense of morality, athleticism, and connection to nature. While this portrayal can be seen as flattering, it also simplifies and romanticizes the complexities of human identity and cultural belonging. It runs the risk of essentializing his identity, reducing him to a set of pre-determined characteristics rather than acknowledging his unique experiences and agency. The implication is that his inherent goodness stems from being “untouched” by civilization, a problematic assumption that ignores the sophisticated social structures within the gorilla troop.
The violence implied, even in the background of the otherwise lighthearted film, is another aspect to consider. Clayton’s ruthless pursuit of the gorillas, driven by greed and a disregard for their lives, highlights the destructive potential of colonial ambitions. The film doesn’t shy away from showing Clayton’s violent intentions, which serves as a stark contrast to Tarzan’s peaceful co-existence with the jungle. The potential consequences of the English presence on the jungle ecosystem, while not explicitly detailed, are ominously foreshadowed by Clayton’s actions.
Cultural Representation: Appropriation and the Jungle’s Voice
The portrayal of the gorillas in Disney Tarzan raises questions about cultural representation and the potential for appropriation. Are the gorillas simply gorillas, or do they stand as a symbolic representation of African cultures? This question is crucial to address, as it delves into the sensitive issue of how different cultures are depicted in mainstream media. If the gorillas are intended to represent African cultures, even unintentionally, the film runs the risk of perpetuating stereotypes or misrepresentations.
The portrayal of Kerchak, the stoic and protective leader of the gorilla troop, as a reluctant father figure to Tarzan, is a good example. While Kerchak’s character is ultimately redeemed, his initial hostility towards Tarzan could be interpreted as a reflection of prejudiced attitudes towards outsiders or those perceived as different. It’s important to note that cultural sensitivities have evolved significantly since the film’s release, and what may have been considered acceptable in the past is now subject to greater scrutiny.
The casting choices for voice actors and the use of accents also warrant examination. Do the voices used for the gorilla characters reinforce any existing stereotypes? Is there a lack of diversity in the voice cast that further contributes to the film’s limited cultural perspective? These questions are important to consider when evaluating the film’s overall representation of different cultures. It is also worth pointing out the lack of representation for indigenous populations of Africa in the film. This omission underscores the colonial narrative, which tends to erase the presence and contributions of local communities.
Beyond the Swinging and Singing: Human Nature’s Darker Side
Disney Tarzan‘s veneer of family-friendly entertainment, when scratched, reveals glimpses into the darker side of human nature. The primary antagonist, Clayton, serves as a compelling example. He is not merely a simple villain motivated by greed. He embodies the ruthless ambition, disregard for nature, and a willingness to exploit others for personal gain. In this regard, Clayton can be seen as an embodiment of the darker aspects of colonialism itself, representing the exploitative forces that drove historical expansion.
The film also hints at the potential for violence and conflict within the gorilla troop. Kerchak’s initial distrust of Tarzan showcases the “survival of the fittest” mentality that governs their society. While the gorillas are generally portrayed as benevolent, their existence is a constant struggle for survival, and the film doesn’t shy away from showing the potential for conflict and violence within their ranks.
Moreover, Tarzan explores the theme of fear and the prejudice that can arise from it. The humans are initially fearful of the jungle and its inhabitants, while the gorillas are wary of Tarzan because he is different. This fear of the unknown serves as a catalyst for conflict and underscores the importance of understanding and acceptance. How people handle this fear is one of the darker elements explored in the film.
The death of Kala’s baby gorilla at the very start, and the hunting of other gorillas later on, is another demonstration of the darker side of the film. These emotional scenes create a sense of loss and grief. The gorillas mourn the loss of life. The gorillas are threatened, not by nature, but by other humans.
Conclusion: Shadows in the Story
Disney’s Tarzan remains a cherished animated classic, celebrated for its groundbreaking animation, memorable soundtrack, and heartwarming story. However, this exploration into the shadows beneath the veneer of the film reveals its nuances. This complex narrative touches upon potentially troubling themes of colonialism, cultural appropriation, and the darker aspects of human nature. While the film offers a message of belonging and acceptance, it also subtly reinforces colonial power dynamics and cultural assumptions.
Therefore, while Disney Tarzan undoubtedly holds a special place in many hearts, it is imperative to engage in critical discussions about its portrayal of culture, colonialism, and human nature. This film should be viewed through the lens of the current environment of cultural sensitivity and awareness. By acknowledging the potential issues it raises, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities inherent in storytelling and its impact on shaping our perceptions of the world. Disney’s Tarzan is more than just a jungle adventure; it’s a reflection of the values and assumptions of its time, inviting us to consider how these values have evolved and what lessons we can learn from the past. The film’s impact is best understood in an honest and critical discussion.
