After spending several years adapting to the sophisticated life of London society, John Clayton, also known as Tarzan, finds himself torn between two worlds. Despite his polished exterior and refined manners, his instincts and heart remain deeply connected to the untamed jungle where he was raised. When news reaches him of suspicious activities at a mining encampment deep within his former home, Tarzan is compelled to return to the wild and confront the challenges lurking in the shadows of the forest.
Upon his return, Tarzan encounters a complex web of intrigue and danger. The mining operation threatens not only the delicate balance of the jungle ecosystem but also the safety and well-being of its indigenous communities and wildlife. Among the key figures is Captain Leon Rom, a cunning and ruthless antagonist whose ambitions serve as a catalyst for conflict. Tarzan must navigate a treacherous landscape filled with deception, greed, and betrayal to protect the jungle he once called home.
As the story unfolds, Tarzan's dual identity is put to the ultimate test. Balancing his role as a gentleman of London and a guardian of the jungle, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and heroism. With thrilling action, emotional depth, and captivating performances by Alexander Skarsgård and Christoph Waltz, the series explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the enduring bond between man and nature.
Main Cast of The Legend of Tarzan
Alexander Skarsgård
John Clayton / Tarzan
In 'The Legend of Tarzan' (2016), Alexander Skarsgård portrays the iconic character Tarzan, bringing a fresh and dynamic interpretation to the classic jungle hero. This role marked a significant departure from his earlier performances, notably in television series like '
True Blood' where he played the modern vampire Eric Northman. Skarsgård's portrayal of Tarzan showcased his physicality and ability to embody a heroic, action-oriented lead, highlighting his versatility beyond the brooding or supernatural characters he was previously known for. The performance stood out by combining intense action sequences with nuanced emotional depth, allowing him to explore themes of identity and belonging in a period adventure setting, thus broadening his appeal and demonstrating his range as an actor.
Christoph Waltz
Captain Leon Rom
In 'The Legend of Tarzan' (2016), Christoph Waltz delivers a compelling performance as Captain Leon Rom, a calculating and ruthless Belgian officer whose cold demeanor and strategic mind make him a formidable antagonist. Unlike his charismatic and eccentric Hans Landa in '
Inglourious Basterds' or the enigmatic Dr. King Schultz in '
Django Unchained,' Waltz's portrayal of Rom is more subdued and menacing, focusing on a chilling blend of authority and menace. This role showcases Waltz's versatility in embodying varied villainous personas. An interesting trivia fact is that Waltz reportedly drew inspiration from historical colonial figures to bring authenticity to his portrayal of Captain Rom.
Samuel L. Jackson
George Washington Williams
In 'The Legend of Tarzan' (2016), Samuel L. Jackson plays George Washington Williams, a real-life African-American civil rights advocate and historian who investigates reports of mistreatment in the Congo. This role is significant in Jackson's career as it showcases his ability to portray historically grounded, complex characters within adventure narratives, contrasting with his more iconic, often larger-than-life roles in films like '
Pulp Fiction' or the Marvel Cinematic Universe. What makes this performance stand out is Jackson's nuanced portrayal of a man driven by justice and moral conviction amidst colonial exploitation, highlighting his versatility and adding depth to the film's exploration of historical themes.
Margot Robbie
Jane Porter
In 'The Legend of Tarzan' (2016), Margot Robbie portrays Jane Porter, a spirited and intelligent woman who challenges traditional expectations while navigating the complexities of life in the African jungle alongside Tarzan. This role allowed Robbie to explore a character that combined strength, intelligence, and compassion, showcasing her versatility beyond her earlier roles. Compared to her breakout performance in '
The Wolf of Wall Street' (2013), where she played the wild and flirtatious Naomi Lapaglia, Jane Porter was a more grounded and emotionally nuanced character. This performance stood out as it emphasized her ability to lead a major action-adventure film with both grace and depth, reinforcing her status as a dynamic actress capable of a broad range of roles.
Crew of The Legend of Tarzan
Full backstage crew list →