Tarzan of the Apes premiered on January 27, 1918, and became an instant commercial phenomenon. It was one of the very first movies in cinema history to gross over one million dollars.
The producers had initially considered filming in Florida, but Morgan City's unique combination of jungle-like terrain, railroad access, and available workforce made it the perfect choice.
This location is considered the first, authentic "Tarzan" jungle. 2. Los Angeles and Griffith Park, California
: This waterfront area in Morgan City , known for its iconic moss-covered trees, was the specific site for many "hut scenes," including the construction of palmetto huts used by the film’s characters.
: It was one of the first major motion pictures to film on location outside of the Los Angeles or New York areas. Casting Milestones where was the first tarzan movie filmed top
Waterways like the Bayou Teche allowed the crew to film river scenes, boat arrivals, and native shoreline villages.
Despite its significance, "Tarzan of the Apes" is now considered a lost film, meaning that no complete copies have survived to the present day. However, still images and promotional materials from the film have been preserved, offering a glimpse into the early days of cinema and the birth of the Tarzan legend.
: Approximately 20 gymnasts from the New Orleans Athletic Club were hired to portray Tarzan's adoptive ape family in costumes. The Legacy of the Shoot
The story of the first Tarzan movie serves as a testament to the early days of cinema, when filmmakers bravely ventured into the unknown to create something truly magical. The mystique of the jungle, combined with the allure of a wild, yet relatable hero, has captivated audiences for generations, ensuring Tarzan's place in the annals of cinematic history. Tarzan of the Apes premiered on January 27,
Notable production facts
Tarzan of the Apes was released in 1918, starring Elmo Lincoln as the iconic Tarzan, and quickly became the highest-grossing film in the United States that year, grossing approximately
: A local hardware store served as the production's prop shop for building costumes and sets. Historical Significance First On-Location Blockbuster
: Used for scenes involving specific animals and controlled environments. This location is considered the first, authentic "Tarzan"
The film's production team set up a makeshift studio in Escondido, constructing a jungle set, complete with trees, vines, and exotic plants. The area's mild climate and natural scenery provided an authentic backdrop for the film's jungle scenes.
. This location served as a stand-in for the African jungle due to its lush vegetation, bayous, and moss-draped cypress trees.
Trained circus animals were shipped to Morgan City via train cars.
That search led them to the bayous of Louisiana.