"Tarzan," released in 1999, is a captivating animated film that tells the story of a young boy raised by a tribe of gorillas in the heart of the African jungle. Orphaned as a baby, Tarzan grows up believing he is one of them, forming a deep bond with his gorilla mother, Kala. As he matures, he grapples with his identity and the mysteries of his human heritage.

The arrival of explorers, including the adventurous Jane Porter and her father, disrupts Tarzan's world. Fascinated by Jane, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning about love, friendship, and the complexities of being human. However, the film also introduces the threat posed by the explorers, particularly the villainous Clayton, who seeks to exploit the jungle and its inhabitants.

Through stunning animation and a memorable soundtrack, "Tarzan" explores themes of belonging, the clash between civilization and nature, and the importance of family, ultimately leading Tarzan to embrace both his human and jungle roots.

What is the budget of Tarzan?

"Tarzan," the animated classic released in 1999, captivated audiences with its stunning visuals and heartfelt storytelling. Directed by Kevin Lima and featuring the voices of Tony Goldwyn as Tarzan and Minnie Driver as Jane Porter, this film brought the beloved character to life in a new way. With a production budget of $145 million, the financial aspects of "Tarzan" are as intriguing as its narrative.

What was the production budget?

The production budget for "Tarzan" was a substantial $145,000,000. This figure places it among the higher echelons of animated films from the late 1990s. For context, other animated features released around the same time, such as "The Lion King" (1994) with a budget of $45 million and "Mulan" (1998) at $90 million, highlight how "Tarzan" represented a significant investment for Walt Disney Animation Studios.

Key Budget Allocation Categories

While specific breakdowns of budget allocation are not publicly detailed, major cost factors typically include:

- Animation and Special Effects: The film's lush jungle environments and character animations required advanced technology and skilled artists.

- Voice Talent: Hiring well-known actors can significantly impact production costs.

- Music and Soundtrack: Phil Collins' memorable score added both emotional depth and financial investment.

What were the major cost factors?

Several elements contributed to the overall production costs of "Tarzan." The animation process itself was labor-intensive, requiring a large team of animators and artists. Notable scenes, such as the iconic "You'll Be in My Heart" sequence, demanded extensive resources to achieve the desired emotional impact.

Budget challenges were not uncommon during production. The ambitious nature of the animation and the desire for high-quality results sometimes led to adjustments in the budget. The initial budget of $145 million remained consistent, with no significant overruns reported.

How did Tarzan perform at the box office?

"Tarzan" achieved impressive box office success, grossing $448,191,819 worldwide. The domestic box office earnings reached $171,091,819, showcasing its appeal both in the U.S. and internationally.

Break-even Point Analysis

To determine the break-even point, a film typically needs to earn about twice its production budget to cover marketing and distribution costs. For "Tarzan," this would mean a target of approximately $290 million. With its worldwide earnings surpassing this figure, the film was deemed a financial success.

ROI Percentage

Calculating the return on investment (ROI) for "Tarzan" reveals a profitable venture for Disney. With a production budget of $145 million and total earnings of $448 million, the ROI stands at approximately 209%. This figure underscores the film's financial viability.

Was Tarzan profitable?

Yes, "Tarzan" was indeed profitable. The film not only recouped its production costs but also generated significant earnings, contributing positively to Disney's financial portfolio. The success of "Tarzan" helped solidify the studio's reputation for producing high-quality animated films.

Impact on the Studio and Franchise

The financial success of "Tarzan" had a lasting impact on Disney. It paved the way for future animated projects, encouraging the studio to invest in more ambitious storytelling and animation techniques. The film's popularity also led to merchandise, a Broadway adaptation, and a sequel, further expanding the franchise.

Future Movie Budgets in the Genre

The success of "Tarzan" influenced future budgets for animated films. As studios recognized the potential for high returns, they began allocating larger budgets for animation projects, setting a new standard in the industry.

Commonly Asked Questions

How much did Tarzan (1999) cost to make?

The production cost of "Tarzan" was $145 million.

Was Tarzan (1999) profitable?

Yes, "Tarzan" was profitable, earning over $448 million worldwide.

What was the most expensive element of Tarzan (1999)?

The animation and special effects were among the most expensive elements of the production.

How much did Tarzan (1999) make at the box office?

"Tarzan" grossed $448,191,819 worldwide.

Did Tarzan (1999) go over budget?

No, "Tarzan" maintained its initial budget of $145 million without significant overruns.

In summary, "Tarzan" stands as a remarkable example of animated filmmaking, both in terms of storytelling and financial success. With a substantial budget and impressive box office performance, it remains a significant entry in Disney's animated legacy.