Hollywood & Vines: The Movie Magic of Tarzan

Presented by the Science and Technology Council of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Hosted by Craig Barron & Ben Burtt

In two unique presentations, Oscar-winning visual effects supervisor Craig Barron and Oscar-winning sound designer Ben Burtt explore some of the secrets behind the making of Tarzan and His Mate (1934) and Tarzan Finds a Son! (1939). Both programs include rare, behind-the-scenes photos revealing how certain technologies were used in making the films. The program will also examine the MGM rear-projection technique used to create the illusion of a charging rhino.

Sound effects played an enormous role in these films. Tarzan and His Mate is one of those rare action films in which no music score was added; instead, the filmmakers relied on the power of sound effects alone to magnify the drama. Burtt will perform live audio demonstrations to illustrate why this was successful, and he will reveal the secret of how the classic Tarzan yell was created (as well as other fun, quintessential Tarzan sounds).

Tarzan and His Mate
New 35mm print from the Academy Film Archive
Presented by Craig Barron & Ben Burtt
Jane's (Maureen O'Sullivan) former love Harry Holt (Neil Hamilton) returns to the jungle bearing expensive gifts in an effort to convince her to return to civilization. Holt and his business partner embark on an ivory expedition to the elephant burial grounds, and Tarzan (Johnny Weissmuller) does everything in his power to stop them. Because censors found the aquatic interlude too racy, this version of the film was released only briefly and in just a few theaters.

Tarzan Finds a Son! Sunday, March 13, 3:00 pm