As far as summer blockbusters go, “The Legend of Tarzan” is a fun ride from start to finish. I didn’t expect a work of genius, mainly because this is familiar territory for anyone who has seen at least one Tarzan film before. And yet, the filmmakers have a few new ideas up their sleeves. They’ve reintroduced Tarzan (well played by Alexander Skarsgård) as a Lord now living in London with his wife Jane (Margot Robbie). Soon enough, he is urged to return to Africa to see what King Leopold of Belgium is up to, and a new adventure unfolds. Most of the familiar touches are still here, from Tarzan’s backstory to his encounter with his old friends and family. But the journey and its purpose are new, along with various supporting characters. I, for one, was delighted to see Christoph Waltz yet again portraying a villain. I know that he’s done it many times before, but he always brings something new to the table. As for top billed Skarsgård, he is likable and strong enough as the Lord of the Jungle. Add to that an impressive visual treatment (even in 3D, the movie is visually stunning) and an appealing heroine (Margot Robbie. Enough said.) and you get a popcorn movie in every sense of the word. Whether you’re looking for bloodthirsty action scenes or a dose of eye popping visual effects, “The Legend of Tarzan” is bound to entertain you, even as it covers familiar territory.

Rating: 3/4