The roaring twenties are back… or are they? While a 2022 release of The Legend of Tarzan 2 isn't officially confirmed, the enduring popularity of the character keeps the possibility alive in the minds of fans. This article delves into the current landscape of Tarzan adaptations, explores why a sequel might (or might not) happen, and examines what fans could expect should a new film swing into theaters.
The Enduring Appeal of Tarzan: Why Another Film Might Be on the Horizon
Tarzan, the ape-man raised in the jungles of Africa, is a timeless character. His story speaks to universal themes of nature versus nurture, civilization versus savagery, and the enduring power of love and family. The 2016 film, starring Alexander Skarsgård, attempted a modern reimagining, focusing on political intrigue and colonial exploitation. While it received mixed reviews, its box office performance suggests a continued audience interest. This lingering interest, coupled with the ongoing demand for adventure films, fuels speculation about a sequel.
Analyzing the 2016 Film's Successes and Shortcomings: A Foundation for a Sequel
The 2016 film’s strengths lay in its stunning visuals and the compelling performance of Skarsgård. However, critics often pointed to a convoluted plot and a somewhat underutilized portrayal of Tarzan’s unique jungle skills. A sequel could learn from these shortcomings, focusing on a more streamlined narrative that truly showcases Tarzan's exceptional abilities while delving deeper into his complex relationship with Jane and his struggle between two worlds.
What a Hypothetical The Legend of Tarzan 2 (2022) Could Offer:
If a sequel were to materialize, several avenues for storytelling present themselves:
Potential Story Arcs:
- A New Threat: A fresh antagonist, perhaps a powerful corporation exploiting the African wilderness or a resurrected ancient evil from the depths of the jungle, could provide a compelling conflict.
- Exploring Tarzan's Past: The sequel could delve into previously unexplored aspects of Tarzan's childhood, revealing more about his upbringing and his connection to Kala and the ape community.
- Family Matters: A focus on Tarzan's family, perhaps with the addition of children, could add emotional depth and raise new stakes.
- Political Intrigue: Building upon the 2016 film, a sequel could delve further into the political complexities of the colonial era and the fight for African independence.
Casting and Crew: The Dream Team
While no official information exists regarding a sequel, fans have already begun speculating about potential cast and crew members. The return of Alexander Skarsgård as Tarzan is highly anticipated, along with Margot Robbie as Jane. A new director could bring a fresh perspective while retaining the essence of the character.
The Reality Check: Why a 2022 Sequel Might Not Happen
Despite the enduring appeal of Tarzan, several factors could hinder the production of a sequel. The 2016 film’s lukewarm reception might discourage studios from investing in a follow-up. The complexities of securing rights and navigating the potentially sensitive portrayal of colonialism could also present challenges. Finally, the current cinematic landscape is saturated with superhero films and other genres, potentially lessening the appeal of a Tarzan sequel.
Conclusion: The Future of Tarzan on the Big Screen
While the possibility of The Legend of Tarzan 2 (2022) remains firmly in the realm of speculation, the enduring popularity of the character ensures that his story will likely continue in some form. Whether it takes the form of a direct sequel, a reboot, or another adaptation remains to be seen. For now, fans can only hope that a future iteration captures the spirit of the original stories while offering a fresh and compelling cinematic experience worthy of the ape-man legend.
