Johnny Weissmuller swung through the jungle vines as Tarzan a total of twelve times, solidifying his place as the most iconic and recognizable ape-man in cinematic history. These films, produced by MGM and RKO Radio Pictures, defined the Tarzan character for generations and cemented Weissmuller’s legacy.
The Reign of the Jungle King: Weissmuller’s Tarzan Filmography
Weissmuller’s portrayal of Edgar Rice Burroughs’s Tarzan was a groundbreaking success. He possessed the physical attributes and athleticism to embody the character convincingly, and his charismatic screen presence captivated audiences worldwide. While later actors would explore the intellectual and complex dimensions of Tarzan, Weissmuller’s interpretation focused on the primal and adventurous aspects of the character, making him a symbol of raw strength and untamed freedom.
He initially signed a contract with MGM, a studio known for its lavish productions and commitment to quality. This association undoubtedly contributed to the initial success and enduring popularity of his Tarzan films. Later, when MGM opted not to continue the series, Weissmuller transitioned to RKO, ensuring his continued reign as the King of the Jungle.
Here’s a chronological list of Weissmuller’s twelve Tarzan films:
- Tarzan the Ape Man (1932) – MGM
- Tarzan and His Mate (1934) – MGM
- Tarzan Escapes (1936) – MGM
- Tarzan Finds a Son! (1939) – MGM
- Tarzan’s Secret Treasure (1941) – MGM
- Tarzan’s New York Adventure (1942) – MGM
- Tarzan Triumphs (1943) – RKO
- Tarzan’s Desert Mystery (1943) – RKO
- Tarzan and the Amazons (1945) – RKO
- Tarzan and the Leopard Woman (1946) – RKO
- Tarzan and the Huntress (1947) – RKO
- Tarzan and the Mermaids (1948) – RKO
Deeper Dive: Frequently Asked Questions
H3: Why did Johnny Weissmuller become Tarzan?
Weissmuller was already a world-renowned athlete, having won five Olympic gold medals in swimming. His exceptional physique and natural charisma made him a perfect fit for the role of Tarzan. MGM was looking for someone who could not only embody the physical prowess of the character but also project an image of rugged heroism. Weissmuller’s athleticism, combined with his handsome looks, made him the ideal choice. He was, in essence, already a “real-life” Tarzan.
H3: What made Weissmuller’s Tarzan so iconic?
Several factors contributed to the enduring appeal of Weissmuller’s Tarzan. His authentic portrayal of the character, combined with the exciting action sequences and exotic jungle settings, captivated audiences. He also popularized the iconic “Tarzan yell,” a sound that is instantly recognizable and synonymous with the character. Moreover, the films offered an escape from the harsh realities of the Depression era, transporting viewers to a world of adventure and romance.
H3: Who was Jane in Johnny Weissmuller’s Tarzan movies?
There were two notable Janes. Maureen O’Sullivan played Jane in the first six MGM Tarzan films, creating a beloved on-screen partnership with Weissmuller. Later, Brenda Joyce took over the role of Jane for the final six RKO Tarzan films. Both actresses brought their unique qualities to the character, but O’Sullivan’s portrayal remains the most iconic for many fans.
H3: What happened to Johnny Weissmuller after Tarzan?
After leaving the Tarzan role, Weissmuller starred in a series of Jungle Jim movies from 1948 to 1954, effectively playing a similar character but under a different name. He also made several television appearances. In his later years, Weissmuller enjoyed attending film festivals and autograph signings, embracing his legacy as the legendary Tarzan.
H3: Were Johnny Weissmuller’s Tarzan films accurate to the books?
While the films were based on Edgar Rice Burroughs’s Tarzan novels, they often deviated significantly from the source material. The films simplified the character, focusing on his primal instincts and physical abilities rather than his intellectual development and aristocratic background as depicted in the books. Burroughs himself reportedly had mixed feelings about the film adaptations.
H3: Which Johnny Weissmuller Tarzan film is considered the best?
Tarzan and His Mate (1934) is often considered the best of the Weissmuller Tarzan films. It’s celebrated for its beautiful cinematography, thrilling action sequences, and the undeniable chemistry between Weissmuller and O’Sullivan. The film also features some controversial scenes that were later censored, adding to its notoriety.
H3: How did they create the Tarzan yell?
The Tarzan yell is a complex sound created through a combination of vocal techniques. While Weissmuller contributed to the sound, it was primarily crafted using recordings of different vocalists, including opera singers and yodelers, which were then mixed together to create the final, iconic yell. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of sound design in early cinema.
H3: Were the animals in the films real?
Yes, the animals featured in Weissmuller’s Tarzan films were real, including chimpanzees, lions, elephants, and gorillas. The use of live animals added a sense of authenticity and danger to the films, but it also raised ethical concerns about animal welfare, particularly by today’s standards.
H3: How much was Johnny Weissmuller paid for his Tarzan roles?
Weissmuller’s salary varied throughout his tenure as Tarzan. Initially, he was paid a relatively modest sum, but his salary increased significantly as the films became more successful. By the later films, he was one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood, reflecting his immense popularity and value to the studios.
H3: Did Johnny Weissmuller perform his own stunts?
Weissmuller performed many of his own stunts, leveraging his athletic background to create convincing and exciting action sequences. However, for particularly dangerous stunts, stunt doubles were sometimes used to minimize the risk of injury. The combination of Weissmuller’s athleticism and skilled stunt work contributed to the realism and excitement of the films.
H3: Did Weissmuller ever tire of playing Tarzan?
While Weissmuller was grateful for the fame and fortune that the Tarzan role brought him, he eventually expressed a desire to pursue other types of roles. He felt somewhat typecast as Tarzan and wanted to demonstrate his versatility as an actor. However, his association with the character was so strong that he found it difficult to break free from the Tarzan image.
H3: Are the Johnny Weissmuller Tarzan films still popular today?
Despite being produced decades ago, the Johnny Weissmuller Tarzan films continue to be popular today. They are regularly shown on television and are available on DVD and streaming platforms. The films’ enduring appeal lies in their timeless themes of adventure, romance, and the allure of the untamed wilderness. Weissmuller’s portrayal of Tarzan remains the benchmark against which all subsequent portrayals are measured, securing his place as the definitive King of the Jungle.