June 18, 1999, marked the highly anticipated North American theatrical release of Disney's 'Tarzan,' an animated epic that swung into theaters and into the hearts of audiences worldwide. This date launched a critically acclaimed and commercially successful film that would go on to earn a remarkable $448.2 million globally, solidifying its place as a pivotal entry in the Disney Renaissance era. It was a film lauded for its groundbreaking animation techniques and its memorable, Oscar-winning soundtrack by Phil Collins, offering a fresh, dynamic take on the classic tale of the ape-man.
What it is
'Tarzan' is an animated musical adventure film loosely based on Edgar Rice Burroughs' iconic novel, 'Tarzan of the Apes.' The narrative centers on Tarzan, an orphaned human baby raised by a family of gorillas in the lush African jungle. He grapples with his identity, feeling caught between the animal kingdom that raised him and the human world he encounters when a British expedition, led by Professor Porter and his daughter Jane, arrives. Voiced by a stellar cast including Tony Goldwyn (Tarzan), Minnie Driver (Jane), Glenn Close (Kala), Rosie O'Donnell (Terk), and Lance Henriksen (Kerchak), the film masterfully weaves a coming-of-age story about belonging, family, and acceptance.
How it came to be
The development of 'Tarzan' began in 1995, with directors Chris Buck and Kevin Lima aiming to create a more action-packed and visually dynamic adaptation than previous iterations. A major technological leap for the film was the development of 'Deep Canvas,' a proprietary Disney software that allowed 2D animated characters to fluidly move through richly rendered 3D backgrounds, giving an unprecedented sense of depth and movement. Another unconventional choice was bringing in Phil Collins to write and perform the film's songs, rather than having the characters sing. This approach provided a unique narrative voice, with Collins' music serving as an emotional commentary on Tarzan's journey.
How many it sold
'Tarzan' was a significant financial triumph for Disney, boasting a worldwide gross of $448,191,819 against a substantial production budget of approximately $130 million, making it Disney's most expensive animated film at the time. Domestically, the film garnered over $171 million, while its international release contributed an impressive $277 million. This stellar performance positioned 'Tarzan' as the fifth-highest-grossing film of 1999 and, upon its release, it became the second-highest-grossing animated film of all time, surpassed only by 'The Lion King.' Its robust box office success underscored Disney's continued dominance in the animated film market.
Why it resonated
The film resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike due to its stunning visuals, innovative animation, and heartfelt storytelling. The 'Deep Canvas' technology provided breathtaking sequences of Tarzan soaring through the jungle, creating an immersive experience that was unlike anything seen before. Phil Collins' original songs, particularly the Oscar-winning 'You'll Be in My Heart,' became instant classics, adding a profound emotional layer to the narrative. Critics lauded its artistic ambition, mature themes of environmentalism and identity, and its ability to blend action, humor, and genuine emotion, making it a compelling watch for all ages.
Impact today
'Tarzan' has left an enduring legacy, particularly for its technical innovations in animation, with 'Deep Canvas' pushing the boundaries for dynamic character movement and immersive environments in future productions. The film's success spawned a Broadway musical adaptation, two direct-to-video sequels ('Tarzan & Jane' and 'Tarzan II'), and an animated television series ('The Legend of Tarzan'), extending its universe. Today, it remains a cherished part of the Disney animated canon, celebrated for its iconic soundtrack, exhilarating action sequences, and its timeless message about finding one's true family and identity, regardless of biological ties, continuing to captivate new generations of viewers.
Historical content researched and generated by Gemini 2.5 Pro.