Tarzan II—Buena Vista

Video: 4
Audio: 4
Extras: 3

Sequels are notorious for being disappointing. Disney's Tarzan II, however, is a rare exception. Tarzan, Terk, and the rest of the family are back in this action-packed film, with new characters and a great soundtrack. Everyone knows the story of Tarzan, and you don't need to have seen the first Disney version to enjoy this one. Tarzan II takes us back to when the title character was a young child, awkward and lost, trying to discover who he really is and where he fits in amongst all the different creatures of the wild. While the film turns out to be a journey of self-discovery, it maintains a childlike enthusiasm, sure to entertain both your child and the child within.

Presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic, the video is nearly perfect. The animation is not as appealing as the original, but it does cater to my appreciation for (mostly) hand-drawn animation. The background scenery is brilliantly done, and the movement within the film is dynamic; you can almost feel yourself moving around in the jungle. The colors are vivid and, overall, just beautiful. Audio is available in Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS and delivers great sound on that end. Special features include: "Monkey See, Monkey Do: Free Tantor with an Engaging Memory Game," "Terk and Tantor's Jungle Guide," a Phil Collins music video, and "The Legacy of Tarzan."

This precursory look at Tarzan is just as exciting, dramatic, and touching as the first release. If you already own that one, I recommend that you buy Tarzan II as well—your little one will simply love it.

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