Tarzan (Disney Collector's Edition)

Tarzan (Disney Collector's Edition)
After viewing Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Edgar Rice Burroughs wrote to Walt Disney about adapting his novel of an ape-man into a feature animated cartoon. Sixtysome years later, the tale is finally told with brilliant design work that looks unlike any previous animated film. The story is a natural for Disney since the themes of misunderstood central figures have been at the heart of its recent hits. Disney's Tarzan doesn't wander far from the familiar story of a shipwrecked baby who is brought up by apes in Africa. What gives the film its zing is its clever use of music (the songs are sung by Phil Collins himself rather than onscreen characters) and the remarkable animation. Deep Canvas, a 3-D technology, was developed for the film, creating a jungle that comes alive as Tarzan swings through the trees, often looking like a modern skateboarder racing down giant tree limbs. The usual foray of sidekicks, including a rambunctious ape voiced by Rosie O'Donnell, should keep the little ones aptly entertained. The two lead voices, Tony Goldwyn as Tarzan and Minnie Driver as Jane, are inspired choices. Their chemistry helps the story through the weakest points (the last third) and makes Tarzan's initial connection with all things human (including Jane) delicious entertainment. Disney still is not taking risks in its animated films, but as cookie-cutter entertainment, Tarzan makes a pretty good treat. (Ages 5 and up) --Doug Thomas
Customer Review: Very Pleased
The purchase was delivered quickly to my house. Film is in great condition and plays well. I will make more purchases from Amazon.
Customer Review: 2 Disc Collector's Edition
Somewhere in 2000, Disney quietly launched a special 2 disc collector's edition of "Tarzan" the same year as its paltry one disc edition. For some reason it advertised the one disc version heavily, which is a shame because the collector's edition is a gem not to be missed by fans. Unfortunately I didn't know about it until years after its release, and by then it was out of print, hard to find, and expensive. Luckily I found a copy that was decently priced, and was finally able to get my hands on this remarkable edition. I see this as the "Tarzan" DVD for adults: instead of cartoony illustrations on the jacket, there's Glen Keane's famous sketch of Tarzan peering at you with those intense eyes. The menus are extremely well designed and the commentaries are entertaining and insightful. It's filled to the brim with extras not found on any other edition (not even the more recent "special edition"). Instead of one long making-of documentary, you are treated to several smaller documentaries devoted to specific topics. This makes it easier to watch what you want. I was astounded at the sophistication of this DVD, especially considering it came out at a time when DVD's were a relatively new phenomena and just starting to come into their own. It demonstrated early-on Disney's capability of designing DVD's that are sophisticated and ahead of the curve. I wish they would do that with all their DVD's.


Playhouse Disney: Music Play Date



Disney's Ruby Bridges
This well-conceived made-for-television Disney movie brings the pain and difficulty of desegregation to life for a generation of kids to whom the 1960s is ancient history. Young Chaz Monet plays Ruby, who in real life walked up those Southern school steps with armed guards barely shielding her from the hate-filled epithets white adults hurled at her as she single-handedly desegregated the institution. Penelope Ann Miller plays her Yankee teacher--actually a tutor, since no white kids will share her classroom. Kevin Pollak plays the psychiatrist who donates his time to help her deal with the trauma, but won't eat her mother's food. This 89-minute film offers surprisingly complex portraits of many of the adult characters and an admirably frank look at the less-than-positive reaction from her own community. Even her father (Michael Beach) waivers in resolution, especially when his white boss fires him. Superior acting, writing, and production mark this look at one of the uglier periods in American social history and the little girl who helped the country take a giant step in the right direction. Somewhat scary situations and use of racial slurs make parental guidance advisable for young children. (Ages 7 and older) --Kimberly Heinrichs
Customer Review: 'IN GOOD TASTE'
This movie did what is called, "tell the truth", but in good taste. Why do I say that? Well it showed how people really can be, but ugly does not have to prevail. Good is a universal description.
Customer Review: Ruby Bridges: The Inspirational True Story
An excellent true story of the first black child in an all white school in New Orleans in 1960. The faith this young six year old student had and the compassion she showed towards those who hated her is inspirational beyond belief. A must see for everyone, especially good for families. I bought two copies, one for my family and one for our high school.