Tarzan's legacy as a cultural icon continues to endure, with new adaptations and interpretations of the character appearing in film, television, and other forms of media. The character's timeless appeal lies in his universal themes of adventure, romance, and self-discovery.

Tarzan's portrayal of the "noble savage" also raises questions about colonialism, imperialism, and the treatment of indigenous peoples. While the character's depiction has been criticized for its romanticization of colonialism, it also reflects the complexities and contradictions of the era in which it was created.

The first film adaptation of Tarzan was a 1918 silent movie, "Tarzan of the Apes," starring Elmo Lincoln. However, it was the 1932 sound film "Tarzan and His Mate," starring Maureen O'Sullivan and Johnny Weissmuller, that catapulted Tarzan to international stardom. The film's success spawned a series of 12 Tarzan movies, with Weissmuller and O'Sullivan becoming synonymous with the characters.