🌴 Tarzan the Fearless (1933) is a thrilling chapter-based jungle adventure film that brings to life the legendary Edgar Rice Burroughs character, Tarzan. Starring the iconic Buster Crabbe in his only appearance as Tarzan, this serial-style film is a captivating blend of exotic mystery, daring action, and vintage Hollywood charm. Released during the height of the Great Depression, Tarzan the Fearless provided audiences with escapism, adventure, and a unique take on the beloved jungle hero.
This film is not to be confused with other Tarzan productions of the era. It was originally produced as a 12-part serial, but it was also released as a standalone feature film (61 minutes long) that combined the first few episodes into a single motion picture. The movie's low budget didn’t stop it from captivating audiences with its raw jungle setting, vintage action, and the charismatic performance of Buster Crabbe, who had already achieved fame as an Olympic swimmer.
🦍 Plot Summary
The movie follows Dr. Brooks, a scientist who has gone missing deep in the African jungle while searching for a lost tribe and sacred artifacts. His daughter, Mary Brooks, concerned about his safety, embarks on a dangerous expedition to locate him.
As Mary and her group delve deeper into the jungle, they are met with hostile natives, treacherous terrain, and the mysterious presence of Tarzan, the wild man of the jungle. Initially feared, Tarzan soon becomes a trusted ally. With the help of his animal friends and unmatched jungle skills, Tarzan protects Mary and guides her through the many dangers they face.
Their journey leads them to the Lost Tribe of Zar, a secretive and mystical group guarding ancient relics. Dr. Brooks is being held captive by the tribe, who believe he wants to steal their sacred treasure. Mary must prove their peaceful intentions before it’s too late.
Meanwhile, a group of nefarious adventurers seeks to exploit the tribe's secrets for personal gain. Tarzan must fight to protect Mary, her father, and the jungle itself from outside greed. With courage, loyalty, and brute strength, Tarzan battles enemies both human and wild, eventually earning the respect and trust of the lost tribe.
The film concludes with Tarzan defeating the villains and returning to his jungle home, while Mary and Dr. Brooks leave the jungle with newfound respect for the jungle man who saved their lives.
👥 Cast
Buster Crabbe as Tarzan
🏊 Olympic swimmer turned actor, Crabbe brought athleticism and charm to the role.
Julie Bishop (credited as Jacqueline Wells) as Mary Brooks
💁 The courageous daughter in search of her father.
E. Alyn Warren as Dr. Brooks
👨🔬 A scientist obsessed with the mysteries of the jungle.
Mischa Auer as Eltar
🧙 Mysterious priest of the Lost Tribe of Zar.
Matthew Betz as Jeff Herbert
🔫 One of the film's villainous adventurers.
This film is not to be confused with other Tarzan productions of the era. It was originally produced as a 12-part serial, but it was also released as a standalone feature film (61 minutes long) that combined the first few episodes into a single motion picture. The movie's low budget didn’t stop it from captivating audiences with its raw jungle setting, vintage action, and the charismatic performance of Buster Crabbe, who had already achieved fame as an Olympic swimmer.
🦍 Plot Summary
The movie follows Dr. Brooks, a scientist who has gone missing deep in the African jungle while searching for a lost tribe and sacred artifacts. His daughter, Mary Brooks, concerned about his safety, embarks on a dangerous expedition to locate him.
As Mary and her group delve deeper into the jungle, they are met with hostile natives, treacherous terrain, and the mysterious presence of Tarzan, the wild man of the jungle. Initially feared, Tarzan soon becomes a trusted ally. With the help of his animal friends and unmatched jungle skills, Tarzan protects Mary and guides her through the many dangers they face.
Their journey leads them to the Lost Tribe of Zar, a secretive and mystical group guarding ancient relics. Dr. Brooks is being held captive by the tribe, who believe he wants to steal their sacred treasure. Mary must prove their peaceful intentions before it’s too late.
Meanwhile, a group of nefarious adventurers seeks to exploit the tribe's secrets for personal gain. Tarzan must fight to protect Mary, her father, and the jungle itself from outside greed. With courage, loyalty, and brute strength, Tarzan battles enemies both human and wild, eventually earning the respect and trust of the lost tribe.
The film concludes with Tarzan defeating the villains and returning to his jungle home, while Mary and Dr. Brooks leave the jungle with newfound respect for the jungle man who saved their lives.
👥 Cast
Buster Crabbe as Tarzan
🏊 Olympic swimmer turned actor, Crabbe brought athleticism and charm to the role.
Julie Bishop (credited as Jacqueline Wells) as Mary Brooks
💁 The courageous daughter in search of her father.
E. Alyn Warren as Dr. Brooks
👨🔬 A scientist obsessed with the mysteries of the jungle.
Mischa Auer as Eltar
🧙 Mysterious priest of the Lost Tribe of Zar.
Matthew Betz as Jeff Herbert
🔫 One of the film's villainous adventurers.
Category
🎥
Short film