What separates this film from other jungle movies like the Tarzan films is the extent of real footage from Africa that is used. This film could be used almost as a tour guide for Africa; it details information about many animals with real footage of them in the wild. Also, unlike the Tarzan films, this one shows real respect for the natives and for their lives.
This film brings out the child in its audience. Although the story isn't incredibly strong, it is hard not to get wrapped up in the fun of it all. Customer Rating: Summary: Surprisingly enjoyable Comment: I just saw this movie and loved it. I just got back from New Orleans for Mardi Gras. A lot of the scenes reminded me of Mardi Gras. Some of the hair styles and the use of jewelry is very popular today. It was so interesting to see the woman pursue her lost daugther untiringly as she was "carried" around throughout her journey. I REALLY enjoyed it. Customer Rating: Summary: 1931 ADVENTURE CLASSIC. Comment: An experienced African trader overcomes tribal hostility. Deep in the heart of Africa, famous hunter, explorer, Aloysius Horn - known as Trader Horn due to his bartering skills, tells Peru, the son of his best friend, that he was the first white man to set eyes on the river of which they are sailing...An amazing foray into adventurous early talkie cinema, this film shouldn't bore fans of cultish films from the thirties. Filmed on location in Africa, based on the sensational 1927 best-selling novel by Alfred Aloysius Horn and Elthreda Lewis & photographed by the excellent Clyde de Vinna, this film is vintage fun! During the filming, director Van Dyke and some crew members contracted malaria and were treated with quinine. A native crew member was eaten alive by an alligator during the filming: tsetse flies, sunstrokes, flash floods & ant attacks all were endured by the crew members. Nominated for the best picture of the 1931-32 season. Van Dyke was awarded the Red Cross Medal by the Japanese Government for his expertly detailed direction. Thelma Todd was tested to play the role of Nina, Irving Thalberg once even considered Jeanette MacDonald for the part! Remade in 1972 (poorly) with Rod Taylor and Anne Heywood, there was a cute Disney short from 1932 entitled TRADER MICKEY. M-G-M did another short called TRADER HOUND in 1931. Customer Rating: Summary: Excellent quality ,especially considering age of movie Comment: A triumph for its time, holds up well, especially visually. Natives and wildlife natural and fascinating. Obvious actual locations add to overall appeal.
