This film bears no resemblance to its source material, the books, nor to the "Gummi-Tarzan" that fans cherish; it fails to even make an attempt. The books were replete with humor, entertainment, and a delightful superpower component, whereas this adaptation is decidedly disheartening. I struggle to comprehend the decision to produce this film under the "Gummi-Tarzan" moniker, as it shares no connection with the original series. As a child, I recall watching this and waiting with bated breath for the appearance of superpowers, only to be met with perpetual disappointment. The absence of these extraordinary abilities, a defining aspect of Gummi-Tarzan, feels like a blatant disregard for the series' primary allure.
This film is akin to a Spider-Man adaptation in which, rather than possessing superpowers, the protagonist is simply a teenager with a penchant for climbing, earning him the nickname "Spider-Man" from his father. The disparity between the lighthearted, whimsical, and amusing nature of the books and the somber, melancholic, and bleak tone of the movie is striking.
While the movie itself may be passable, it is difficult to reconcile the transformation of a beloved childhood book series, replete with superpowers, whimsy, and humor, into a slower-paced, grounded, introspective, and reflective film devoid of fantastical elements.
Regrettably, the movie feels like a betrayal to the character of Gummi Tarzan, and could be perceived as false advertising.
