When the Second World War began three brilliant Hungarians Jews who had made a name for themselves in London -the impresario/director Alexander and his two brothers Zoltan, also a director, and Vincent, artist and art director-- escaped to Hollywood and started making movies. After the international success of their superb London Film Productions, among them "The Thief of Bagdad" (1940), "Rembrandt" (1936) and "The Private Life of Henry VIII" (1933), the three began all over again in distant Hollywood. With its Indian themes and actors, few viewers today have recognized that most of this production was shot in 1941-1942 on Hollywood sound stages, primarily the low-budget Hollywood Center Studios on No. Las Palmas, not far from the more luxurious Paramount Studios. Producer Korda with his brother Zoltan as director were brave enough to mix a native-born Indian actor, Sabu ("Elephant Boy") with two Hollywood star character actors, Spanish-born Joseph Calleia ("Touch of Evil") and Sicilian-born Franco Puglia, both heavily made up. Eternally loyal as the Kordas were to their native countrymen, they never forgot to hire their fellow expatriates: the astonishing music is by Budapest-born Milklos Rozsa ("Spellbound") and orchestrated by Eugene Zador; the second-unit work, the animal sequences and those probably shot on location in India, were directed by Andre de Toth, born in Mako in old Austria-Hungary. American born Bill Hornbeck who edited the Korda's "Scarlet Pimpernel" in London did the cutting and Lee Garmes ("Night of the Hunter') and the Technicolor pioneer, W. Howard Greene, did the cinematography. The excellent sound effects are not credited.
45 Reviews
Best Version of Kipling Tale Put To Film.
Space_Mafune4 January 2007
A young child wanders off into the woods and is lost. With the dangerous, bloodthirsty tiger Shere Khan lurking about, the little boy is adopted by wolves and raised in the jungle. Later embroiled in a jungle feud with Shere Khan, the partly grown boy is driven out of the jungle back into the world of man where he seeks a tooth (a knife) with which he can once and for all strike down his arch nemesis. However the world of man offers many unseen dangers and man isn't inclined to follow those laws of the jungle to which the animals abide.
Personally I feel this is the best adaptation of the "Jungle Book" Rudyard Kipling story put to film. I prefer this over the Disney versions because it never fully loses sight of its overall message, doesn't fail to show the key differences between man and beast, and isn't bogged down by comedy or musical distraction. It's also fun and adventurous, boasts real animals in the familiar roles who give surprisingly believable performances. Lead Sabu as Mowgli is a natural to the role while character actor Joseph Calleia does quite well as lead villain Buldeo. Calleia made quite a career out of playing such roles. By far the silliest moments here have got to be the result of the talking snakes with the human voices. They are the only critters in the film to talk in such a fashion. While the information they relay is vital to the plot of the movie, I'm not sure we really needed to actually hear it spoken aloud. Also the romantic subplot doesn't quite fit in the story either and that it's introduced and never resolved is somewhat disappointing. Still at the end of the day, you want jungle adventure excitement done right, you won't go wrong with 1942's Jungle Book.
Personally I feel this is the best adaptation of the "Jungle Book" Rudyard Kipling story put to film. I prefer this over the Disney versions because it never fully loses sight of its overall message, doesn't fail to show the key differences between man and beast, and isn't bogged down by comedy or musical distraction. It's also fun and adventurous, boasts real animals in the familiar roles who give surprisingly believable performances. Lead Sabu as Mowgli is a natural to the role while character actor Joseph Calleia does quite well as lead villain Buldeo. Calleia made quite a career out of playing such roles. By far the silliest moments here have got to be the result of the talking snakes with the human voices. They are the only critters in the film to talk in such a fashion. While the information they relay is vital to the plot of the movie, I'm not sure we really needed to actually hear it spoken aloud. Also the romantic subplot doesn't quite fit in the story either and that it's introduced and never resolved is somewhat disappointing. Still at the end of the day, you want jungle adventure excitement done right, you won't go wrong with 1942's Jungle Book.
Memorable Star, Brilliant Art Design--And Incredibly Dire DVDs
gftbiloxi4 August 2005
Loosely based on the Rudyard Kipling "Mowgli" stories, the 1942 JUNGLE BOOK offered war-weary audiences brilliant Technicolor, elaborate sets, numerous action sequences, exotic animals, lost treasure, and a climatic firestorm--not to mention charismatic Indian-born star Sabu in a persistently and titillating half-naked state. It was easily one of the most popular films of the year, a two-hour respite from some of the darkest days of World War II, and its style was so admired it easily won two Academy Awards for best color cinematography and best art direction.
Seen today, however, JUNGLE BOOK is considerably less enchanting. Much of the film's original appeal arose from audience interest in seeing "jungle beasts" in full color--and while several of the animal sequences (particularly those relating to tiger Shere Khan) are classics of their kind, most modern audiences have seen many such scenes in many later films. Further undercutting the animal-interest is the film's use of several animal "dummies" that seemed realistic in 1942 but which are now very obvious in their artificiality.
What remains, however, are Sabu and the overall design of the film, both of which are quite remarkable. Sabu (1924-1963) was an extremely unlikely star, plucked from complete obscurity in India by the Korda brothers to star in the 1937 ELEPHANT BOY. Fluent in English, unexpectedly charismatic, and with a handsome face and impressive body that the Kordas displayed to great effect, Sabu's greatest success would come with the 1940 Korda brothers' production of THE THIEF OF BAGDAD, and he would remain a popular actor in exotic roles throughout World War II. Although not his best film, JUNGLE BOOK captures Sabu at the very height of his appeal--and that is saying a great deal indeed.
The design of the film is equally notable and provides a perfect backdrop to Sabu's charms. Filmed largely on soundstages where producer Alexander Korda, director Zoltan Korda, and art director Vincent Korda could exercise absolute control over every aspect of the film, JUNGLE BOOK is a study in the art of the Technicolor process and easily ranks among the finest color films of that decade. The sets, particularly the complex jungle and "lost city" scenes, are both remarkably fine and beautifully photographed, and the firestorm that climaxes the film retains considerable power.
Unfortunately, however, there doesn't really seem a single DVD edition of the film that presents the film in its full 1942 glory. JUNGLE BOOK is among a number of famous films that has fallen into public domain--and the result is a host of incredibly dire releases to the home market. I have seen, either in full or in part, at least a half-dozen DVD releases of the film, and in each instance the colors are extremely muddy and the picture very fuzzy, often to a point at which the movie is virtually unwatchable. And sadly, given the obscurity of the film in the wake of the popular Walt Disney animated feature, we are very unlikely to see anything better.
Gary F. Taylor, aka GFT, Amazon Reviewer
Seen today, however, JUNGLE BOOK is considerably less enchanting. Much of the film's original appeal arose from audience interest in seeing "jungle beasts" in full color--and while several of the animal sequences (particularly those relating to tiger Shere Khan) are classics of their kind, most modern audiences have seen many such scenes in many later films. Further undercutting the animal-interest is the film's use of several animal "dummies" that seemed realistic in 1942 but which are now very obvious in their artificiality.
What remains, however, are Sabu and the overall design of the film, both of which are quite remarkable. Sabu (1924-1963) was an extremely unlikely star, plucked from complete obscurity in India by the Korda brothers to star in the 1937 ELEPHANT BOY. Fluent in English, unexpectedly charismatic, and with a handsome face and impressive body that the Kordas displayed to great effect, Sabu's greatest success would come with the 1940 Korda brothers' production of THE THIEF OF BAGDAD, and he would remain a popular actor in exotic roles throughout World War II. Although not his best film, JUNGLE BOOK captures Sabu at the very height of his appeal--and that is saying a great deal indeed.
The design of the film is equally notable and provides a perfect backdrop to Sabu's charms. Filmed largely on soundstages where producer Alexander Korda, director Zoltan Korda, and art director Vincent Korda could exercise absolute control over every aspect of the film, JUNGLE BOOK is a study in the art of the Technicolor process and easily ranks among the finest color films of that decade. The sets, particularly the complex jungle and "lost city" scenes, are both remarkably fine and beautifully photographed, and the firestorm that climaxes the film retains considerable power.
Unfortunately, however, there doesn't really seem a single DVD edition of the film that presents the film in its full 1942 glory. JUNGLE BOOK is among a number of famous films that has fallen into public domain--and the result is a host of incredibly dire releases to the home market. I have seen, either in full or in part, at least a half-dozen DVD releases of the film, and in each instance the colors are extremely muddy and the picture very fuzzy, often to a point at which the movie is virtually unwatchable. And sadly, given the obscurity of the film in the wake of the popular Walt Disney animated feature, we are very unlikely to see anything better.
Gary F. Taylor, aka GFT, Amazon Reviewer
Brilliant and stunning adaptation with sympathetic characters and colorful outdoors
ma-cortes17 March 2009
Based on Rudyard Kipling's known classic novel , it concerns a little boy named Mowgli (Sabu) . He's living at an Indian village with his warmhearted mum (Rosemary DeCamp) . But he's lost and raised by a wolf pack . Along the way , he encounters a variety of jungle animals , including a complete menagerie , such as : the ferocious black panther named Bagheera , the evil tiger named Shere Khan , the Croc , the bear, elephant , monkeys... Mowgli stays among his animals friends . He takes on a jungle journey and knows the location of a hidden treasure ; then three of the village men (Joseph Calleia, John Qualen, Puglia) follow him and many adventures ensue .
This lavish version of the great classic displays adventures , fantasy , exotic atmosphere , and breathtaking scenarios . This is the first acting to the young Indian boy named Sabu , an American actor , even though he was born in India . In fact he never actually performed in Indian pictures , and was only in British , European, and Hollywood films . He was lined up to star in Indian flicks , and even regarded as an Indian actor , but could not get a valid work permit , because he was a naturalized US Citizen . As he followed a Hollywood 's successful career : ¨The thief of Bagdad¨, ¨Elephant boy¨ and ¨Arabian nights¨ . Rudyard Kipling's two Jungle Book anthologies comprise fifteen stories , four of which were used is this film : "Mowgli's Brothers," "How Fear Came ," "Tiger! Tiger!," and "The King's Ankus¨. Colorful and glimmer cinematography by Howard Greene and Lee Garmes in glamorous Technicolor with shimmering matte shots that make some landscapes look like they were added with magic markers . Exotical and oriental musical score by the great master composer Miklos Rozsa . It was the first film for which original soundtrack recordings were issued . This big budgeted movie is well made by Korda family . Vincent Korda created the impressive sets , Zoltan Korda directed brilliantly this familiar story and magnificent production by Alexander Korda . A must see for children of all ages. Adults will find the picture a little boring , but the younger to be amused.
Other adaptations about the vintage tale are the following ones : the Walt Disney animated classic version ¨Jungle Book¨ by Wolfgang Reithman (1969) and its sequel (2005) , and in the 90s , a beautifully and enchanting filmed version , live-action by Stephen Sommers with Jason Scott Lee, Lena Headley and Sam Neill .
This lavish version of the great classic displays adventures , fantasy , exotic atmosphere , and breathtaking scenarios . This is the first acting to the young Indian boy named Sabu , an American actor , even though he was born in India . In fact he never actually performed in Indian pictures , and was only in British , European, and Hollywood films . He was lined up to star in Indian flicks , and even regarded as an Indian actor , but could not get a valid work permit , because he was a naturalized US Citizen . As he followed a Hollywood 's successful career : ¨The thief of Bagdad¨, ¨Elephant boy¨ and ¨Arabian nights¨ . Rudyard Kipling's two Jungle Book anthologies comprise fifteen stories , four of which were used is this film : "Mowgli's Brothers," "How Fear Came ," "Tiger! Tiger!," and "The King's Ankus¨. Colorful and glimmer cinematography by Howard Greene and Lee Garmes in glamorous Technicolor with shimmering matte shots that make some landscapes look like they were added with magic markers . Exotical and oriental musical score by the great master composer Miklos Rozsa . It was the first film for which original soundtrack recordings were issued . This big budgeted movie is well made by Korda family . Vincent Korda created the impressive sets , Zoltan Korda directed brilliantly this familiar story and magnificent production by Alexander Korda . A must see for children of all ages. Adults will find the picture a little boring , but the younger to be amused.
Other adaptations about the vintage tale are the following ones : the Walt Disney animated classic version ¨Jungle Book¨ by Wolfgang Reithman (1969) and its sequel (2005) , and in the 90s , a beautifully and enchanting filmed version , live-action by Stephen Sommers with Jason Scott Lee, Lena Headley and Sam Neill .
Artistic triumph of Technicolor photography and realistic looking jungle settings...
Doylenf8 December 2008
Although THE JUNGLE BOOK seems to limp along at a slow pace, it catches the eye with its splendid Technicolor photography of lush forests, a brilliantly staged forest fire and the "Lost City" where hidden treasure drives men to greed and destruction. Close-ups of the jungle animals are beautifully shot and all of their scenes are well staged.
As Mowgli, the boy raised by wolves, SABU has the fierce looks of a wolf-child, although he does learn to converse in English awfully soon, thanks to some choppy editing continuity. ROSEMARY DeCAMP is his mother, beaming at him with adoration and accepting the fact at the end that he must return to the forest kingdom where he rules rather than stay with man.
Joseph CALLEIA is terrific as one of the greedy pursuers of gold, marking Sabu's trail so he can find "The Lost City." JOHN QUALEN too is excellent in another supporting role.
Miklos Rozsa's music is not given sufficient strength on the soundtrack, muffled behind all of the dialog and jungle sounds, so it doesn't get its due despite some good orchestrations. It sounds better on recorded excerpts from the film.
A fantasy from my childhood that doesn't register as strongly as it did back then but still manages to hold the interest with its visually arresting sets created by Vincent Korda. TCM is showing a better Technicolor print of the film than was released in the Public Domain version years ago, which was nominated for four Oscars including one for its color cinematography.
As Mowgli, the boy raised by wolves, SABU has the fierce looks of a wolf-child, although he does learn to converse in English awfully soon, thanks to some choppy editing continuity. ROSEMARY DeCAMP is his mother, beaming at him with adoration and accepting the fact at the end that he must return to the forest kingdom where he rules rather than stay with man.
Joseph CALLEIA is terrific as one of the greedy pursuers of gold, marking Sabu's trail so he can find "The Lost City." JOHN QUALEN too is excellent in another supporting role.
Miklos Rozsa's music is not given sufficient strength on the soundtrack, muffled behind all of the dialog and jungle sounds, so it doesn't get its due despite some good orchestrations. It sounds better on recorded excerpts from the film.
A fantasy from my childhood that doesn't register as strongly as it did back then but still manages to hold the interest with its visually arresting sets created by Vincent Korda. TCM is showing a better Technicolor print of the film than was released in the Public Domain version years ago, which was nominated for four Oscars including one for its color cinematography.
Pretty amazing for 1942
planktonrules5 February 2010
This is a rather amazing production for 1942. The lavish sets, costumes and full-color are quite amazing for the time--especially considering it was made during one of the darkest years of WWII. So, instead of the typical black & white propaganda film, here we have pure escapism.
Now if you are looking for the Disney version of the Kipling story, you'll no doubt be disappointed. Aside from names and a few plot elements, the story really bears little in common with the 1967 film. Unlike the cartoon, this film does address how Mowgli becomes stranded in the jungle as an infant plus about 80% of the film consists of Mowgli's life AFTER returning to the village where he was born. And, also unlike the Disney film, humans are pretty greedy and awful in this film. In fact, instead of the tiger, Shere Khan, trying to kill Mowgli, the plot mostly has to do with a jungle treasure and the terrible lengths greed drives men to have it. By the end of the film, Mowgli is sick of the humans and their wicked ways--and leaves to live in his beloved jungle once again--quite the opposite of the Disney story.
Aside from very nice production values, there is a lot to admire about the film. The story is rather timeless and has some depth to it due to its examination of human nature. The only serious negative is the same negative you'd have with all adventure films of this era--no one in the film is actually Indian other than Sabu! Remember, this was the time of Charlie Chan (played originally by a Swede) and actors such as Errol Flynn and Katherine Hepburn playing Asians!! Here, such reliable Hollywood actors as John Qualen and Joseph Calleia play Indians! It's all rather laughable, though perhaps it was tough finding Indian actors at the time (especially with India in the thick of things in the war). Still, it's all very forgivable considering that it's otherwise a quality production from start to finish.
Now if you are looking for the Disney version of the Kipling story, you'll no doubt be disappointed. Aside from names and a few plot elements, the story really bears little in common with the 1967 film. Unlike the cartoon, this film does address how Mowgli becomes stranded in the jungle as an infant plus about 80% of the film consists of Mowgli's life AFTER returning to the village where he was born. And, also unlike the Disney film, humans are pretty greedy and awful in this film. In fact, instead of the tiger, Shere Khan, trying to kill Mowgli, the plot mostly has to do with a jungle treasure and the terrible lengths greed drives men to have it. By the end of the film, Mowgli is sick of the humans and their wicked ways--and leaves to live in his beloved jungle once again--quite the opposite of the Disney story.
Aside from very nice production values, there is a lot to admire about the film. The story is rather timeless and has some depth to it due to its examination of human nature. The only serious negative is the same negative you'd have with all adventure films of this era--no one in the film is actually Indian other than Sabu! Remember, this was the time of Charlie Chan (played originally by a Swede) and actors such as Errol Flynn and Katherine Hepburn playing Asians!! Here, such reliable Hollywood actors as John Qualen and Joseph Calleia play Indians! It's all rather laughable, though perhaps it was tough finding Indian actors at the time (especially with India in the thick of things in the war). Still, it's all very forgivable considering that it's otherwise a quality production from start to finish.
Kipling, Via the Kordas
nk_gillen18 June 2004
When the Blitz began taking its toll on London, producer Alexander Korda picked up stakes and headed for Hollywood, with his two brothers, Zoltan and Vincent, in tow. There, they finished "Thief of Bagdad" (1940) and produced "That Hamilton Woman" (1941) before beginning this elaborate Technicolor version of Kipling's Mowgli stories, originally titled "The Jungle Books," (published in 1894 and 1895). The film focuses on three of the volume's stories - "Mowgli's Brothers," "Tiger, Tiger" and "The King's Ankus." It's a fairly interesting screen translation of Kipling's attempt to provide young readers with the stories he was told by his Indian ayah when he was a child growing up in the Far East.
When a big-spending movie producer like Korda acquires the rights to a classic, there are inevitable changes. Someone hit upon the cute idea of giving Mowgli (played by Sabu) a "love interest." She appears here in the person of Mahala (Patricia O'Rourke), but after she passively lends impetus to an ill-fated search for lost treasure, her character becomes inconsequential to the rest of the picture.
The film begins as Mowgli's mother, Messua (Rosemary de Camp) is widowed one morning when her husband becomes breakfast for a hungry tiger. We later learn that the tiger is the vicious Shere Khan, who during Mowgli's childhood has become his arch-enemy. Unfortunately, when Mowgli and Shere Khan square off for a climactic battle to the end, the dated special-effects are a disappointment. Perhaps Kipling's original version of Khan's death (in the book, he is trampled lifeless by Mowgli's animal/allies) would have better suited the film.
Three of the village's leading citizens have been thrown together as a sort of Hindu vaudeville act: Buldeo, the blowhard hunter (the good, underrated Joseph Calleia); the greedy barber (John Qualen); and the "pundit" (Frank Puglia). Their lust for a dead king's treasure is given appropriate levity. The predatory Buldeo, Shere Khan's human counterpart, represents the single most dangerous threat to the jungle and the sense of community held sacred by the animals who live there. Ideologically, therefore, the fire that purges the jungle of all human sins seems an appropriate climax.
In the end, we see Buldeo, now aged and wiser, confessing his past sins to all who will pay a rupee to listen to his story of Mowgli and the jungle. As we see, he ultimately earns his money and reputation honestly as not only a story-teller, but as the narrator of this charming spectacle.
When a big-spending movie producer like Korda acquires the rights to a classic, there are inevitable changes. Someone hit upon the cute idea of giving Mowgli (played by Sabu) a "love interest." She appears here in the person of Mahala (Patricia O'Rourke), but after she passively lends impetus to an ill-fated search for lost treasure, her character becomes inconsequential to the rest of the picture.
The film begins as Mowgli's mother, Messua (Rosemary de Camp) is widowed one morning when her husband becomes breakfast for a hungry tiger. We later learn that the tiger is the vicious Shere Khan, who during Mowgli's childhood has become his arch-enemy. Unfortunately, when Mowgli and Shere Khan square off for a climactic battle to the end, the dated special-effects are a disappointment. Perhaps Kipling's original version of Khan's death (in the book, he is trampled lifeless by Mowgli's animal/allies) would have better suited the film.
Three of the village's leading citizens have been thrown together as a sort of Hindu vaudeville act: Buldeo, the blowhard hunter (the good, underrated Joseph Calleia); the greedy barber (John Qualen); and the "pundit" (Frank Puglia). Their lust for a dead king's treasure is given appropriate levity. The predatory Buldeo, Shere Khan's human counterpart, represents the single most dangerous threat to the jungle and the sense of community held sacred by the animals who live there. Ideologically, therefore, the fire that purges the jungle of all human sins seems an appropriate climax.
In the end, we see Buldeo, now aged and wiser, confessing his past sins to all who will pay a rupee to listen to his story of Mowgli and the jungle. As we see, he ultimately earns his money and reputation honestly as not only a story-teller, but as the narrator of this charming spectacle.
Colourful, eventful jungle adventure
Leofwine_draca8 June 2012
Here we have a glorious Technicolour adaptation of the Rudyard Kipling stories, nowadays forgotten after being eclipsed by Disney's cartoon film of 1967. Its status is ill-deserved, however, as this turns out to be a thrilling and eventful movie along the same action-packed lines as THE THIEF OF BAGDAD.
It's hardly surprising, given that the two films share both Zoltan Korda as director and Sabu as star. THE JUNGLE BOOK serves as a loose adaptation of a handful of the original Mowgli stories, featuring all the animal characters that Kipling made famous and integrating them into a storyline that's very much of its era.
Once the Tarzan-like jungle adventures are dispensed with, the plot involves a trio of greedy hunters and their quest for a mythical city of gold. Along the way, there are plenty of animal encounters which utilise some cutting edge technology for their day; those giant snakes still look impressive even now, and I'd for sure take them over lazy, modern-day CGI.
Overall the film has a pleasant and whimsical tone, and the bookend scenes involving an old beggar narrating the tale are very well handled. Sabu is in his element, and doesn't put a foot wrong, and there's enough drama to satisfy both child and adult viewers.
It's hardly surprising, given that the two films share both Zoltan Korda as director and Sabu as star. THE JUNGLE BOOK serves as a loose adaptation of a handful of the original Mowgli stories, featuring all the animal characters that Kipling made famous and integrating them into a storyline that's very much of its era.
Once the Tarzan-like jungle adventures are dispensed with, the plot involves a trio of greedy hunters and their quest for a mythical city of gold. Along the way, there are plenty of animal encounters which utilise some cutting edge technology for their day; those giant snakes still look impressive even now, and I'd for sure take them over lazy, modern-day CGI.
Overall the film has a pleasant and whimsical tone, and the bookend scenes involving an old beggar narrating the tale are very well handled. Sabu is in his element, and doesn't put a foot wrong, and there's enough drama to satisfy both child and adult viewers.
If you are young at heart check this out
bobbyhollywood22 July 2010
The first time I saw this movie I walked each step with Sabu playing the part of Mowgli, what an adventure it was. The animals of the jungle know and respect him, they willingly do as he wishes because, they know that he is good and one of them. I first saw this in a theater, and don't remember the year, I was very young. I am sorry to say that it has gained some darkness and lost a little of the very nice color, but to anyone who didn't first see it way back when, it should seem very nice. Watch for the one who whispers, so old and yet so special. Well worth the rental/buy price in my opinion. Mowgli of the wolfs wants to get a tooth, and he does. A very nice movie, I have watched it many times, and will watch it many more. Join me.
1942 Jungle Book
peyote-821 July 2007
I found the film simple and enchanting. maybe its because i came across the film as a child, i cant remember, films are so over the top nowadays its a pleasure to go back to simple things although an Indian speaking perfect English is incredible! Haha There was so much more effort put into the films of those days Today everything gets run through a computer for amazing effects but fake. The jungle book actions are all real (so far as i know from what i see) They did their own stunts ;) Anyone who moans about it really is a sourpuss.
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Sexy Sabu in Forgettable Flick
movietrail13 May 2006
Warning: Spoilers
I first encountered Sabu in his other famous flick, "Thief of Baghdad", where he impressed with both acting talent and physical prowess. The movie, though full of Arab clichés and with actors and extras of every race but Arab, was forgivable because its premise was so fantasy-oriented. "Jungle Book" however, supposedly in a much more realistic mode, presents an India that is a mishmash of cultures, sometimes pseudoCambodian, sometimes pseudoTurkish, sometimes pseudoRoosevelt; with a lot of white actors who look like a bunch of poorly-painted Al Jolsons trying to be Indians while talking like New York cabbies. An overly-clichéd India would have been an improvement, but it seems nobody had any idea what India and its people should look like. The two significant female characters, while both actually of European stock, were the only characters (besides Sabu) who were close to convincing as Indians (although their costumes were not). And oddly, altho the movie poster claims that Mowgli risked his life in the jungle for the "girl he loved", their is no hint that their relation with each other was anything more than a vague mutual curiosity. The plot line was going everywhere and nowhere, and the abundant animal scenes were well shot but redundant (some reviewers comment on the obvious flakiness of the animals, but they must have better eyes than I do). For me, at least, the film's only saving grace was Sabu himself, who obviously was the inspiration for the project. He lit up every scene he appeared in with the believability of his character and his lithe and athletic physique which showcased much more agility than even in "Thief". But if you want sexy, you would do much better to see Jason Scott Lee's 90s version, albeit Mr Lee is hard to believe as an Indian. However, back to the 1942 version, the subplot dealing with Mowgli's nemesis - the evil tiger Shere Khan - was half-baked and he did SK in half-way through the movie with no apparent fanfare. It didn't mesh in well with the story of the greedy Hindu 3 stooges raiding the treasure and consequently the whole bit with the jungle fire and all. The real failure, of course, is the end where the British lass asks the storyteller "what happened to the boy and the girl??", to which the storyteller replies,
"THAT... is another stor-r-ry!"
Wha'...??!
"THAT... is another stor-r-ry!"
Wha'...??!
Kipling & Korda
Ron Oliver31 August 2005
Reared in the Indian Jungle, a young man must learn to live amongst the most rapacious of Nature's creatures, Man.
Sir Alexander Korda's splendid film uses Kipling's book as a launching pad to tell Mowgli's story after he left his animal friends. It is told with great verve and excitement and its evocative views of the great jungle and the Lost City, as locations for Mowgli's further adventures, revealed in vibrant Technicolor, are an indication of the excellent production values lavished to make the story come alive.
As teen-aged Mowgli, Indian actor Sabu couldn't be more perfect. Whether as the Wild Boy who first enters the village, or, later, as the completely competent young man who ferrets out the secret of the Lost City's treasure, fights the tiger Shere Khan and communes with deadly snakes, elephants & wolves, he is completely believable. Kipling would have been proud.
Rosemary DeCamp is a quiet delight as Mowgli's gentle mother, her scenes with Sabu are most effective and tender. John Qualen, Frank Puglia, and especially Joseph Calleia, all score as the members of the man-village who want to see Mowgli destroyed. Playing his character as an old man, Calleia also bookends the film as its storyteller, using his somber demeanor to add to the mystery of the plot. That's Silent star Noble Johnson as the Sikh whose female companion encourages the telling of the tale.
Born Sabu Dastagir in 1924, Sabu was employed in the Maharaja of Mysore's stables when he was discovered by Korda's company and set before the cameras. His first four films (ELEPHANT BOY-1937, THE DRUM-1938, THE THIEF OF BAGDAD-1940, JUNGLE BOOK-1942) were his best and he found himself working out of Hollywood when they were completed. After distinguished military service in World War II he resumed his film career, but he became endlessly confined for years playing ethnic roles in undistinguished minor films, BLACK NARCISSUS (1947) being the one great exception. His final movie, Walt Disney's A TIGER WALKS (1964) was an improvement, but it was too late. Sabu had died of a heart attack in late 1963, only 39 years of age.
Sir Alexander Korda's splendid film uses Kipling's book as a launching pad to tell Mowgli's story after he left his animal friends. It is told with great verve and excitement and its evocative views of the great jungle and the Lost City, as locations for Mowgli's further adventures, revealed in vibrant Technicolor, are an indication of the excellent production values lavished to make the story come alive.
As teen-aged Mowgli, Indian actor Sabu couldn't be more perfect. Whether as the Wild Boy who first enters the village, or, later, as the completely competent young man who ferrets out the secret of the Lost City's treasure, fights the tiger Shere Khan and communes with deadly snakes, elephants & wolves, he is completely believable. Kipling would have been proud.
Rosemary DeCamp is a quiet delight as Mowgli's gentle mother, her scenes with Sabu are most effective and tender. John Qualen, Frank Puglia, and especially Joseph Calleia, all score as the members of the man-village who want to see Mowgli destroyed. Playing his character as an old man, Calleia also bookends the film as its storyteller, using his somber demeanor to add to the mystery of the plot. That's Silent star Noble Johnson as the Sikh whose female companion encourages the telling of the tale.
Born Sabu Dastagir in 1924, Sabu was employed in the Maharaja of Mysore's stables when he was discovered by Korda's company and set before the cameras. His first four films (ELEPHANT BOY-1937, THE DRUM-1938, THE THIEF OF BAGDAD-1940, JUNGLE BOOK-1942) were his best and he found himself working out of Hollywood when they were completed. After distinguished military service in World War II he resumed his film career, but he became endlessly confined for years playing ethnic roles in undistinguished minor films, BLACK NARCISSUS (1947) being the one great exception. His final movie, Walt Disney's A TIGER WALKS (1964) was an improvement, but it was too late. Sabu had died of a heart attack in late 1963, only 39 years of age.
"I am of the jungle. Their way is my way. Their trail is my trail. Their fight is my fight."
classicsoncall22 April 2012
Warning: Spoilers
When I was a kid (back in the Fifties), I loved anything to do with wild animals, especially my favorites, the big jungle cats. So a picture like this was right up my alley. Oddly, today was the first time I've ever watched "Jungle Book" uninterrupted from start to finish. What I recall of the picture was from my Saturday mornings watching 'Andy's Gang' where it was serialized, and even today the version I watched had those identifiable breaks in the story where a new chapter would take place.
Even so, I recall so many years later the names of the more prominent animal characters - Shere Khan the Tiger, Kaa the Python and Bagheera the Panther. I'm surprised the film credits don't list Mowgli's adoptive parents, the wolves Akela and Raksha, even though the wolves have more screen time than some of the others like Hathi the Elephant and the almost invisible Baloo the Bear. The Disney version would have to rectify that.
Others reviewing the film on this board appear to rave about the picture's early use of the color format but watching today I can't really concur. It's not anywhere near as vibrant as the same era's "The Adventures of Robin Hood' (1938) or the following year's "The Wizard of Oz". Granted, not the same budget obviously so I guess you can give it some slack. The technical effects for the time were fairly well done I thought, what with those talking snakes and all.
For his part, Sabu was quite the accomplished non-actor after having been discovered by the Korda's in the late 1930's. He quite obviously looks the part of the young but principled savage who grows up simultaneously in dual worlds of Man and the Jungle. His disillusionment with the 'civilized' world along with the trio of greedy Indian merchants was strongly reminiscent of the central characters in 1948's "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre", and if you watch closely, his vine swing with Mahala (Patricia O'Rourke) looked like it was carbon-copied by those two young actors in the very first "Star Wars" film - you know who I mean.
Even so, I recall so many years later the names of the more prominent animal characters - Shere Khan the Tiger, Kaa the Python and Bagheera the Panther. I'm surprised the film credits don't list Mowgli's adoptive parents, the wolves Akela and Raksha, even though the wolves have more screen time than some of the others like Hathi the Elephant and the almost invisible Baloo the Bear. The Disney version would have to rectify that.
Others reviewing the film on this board appear to rave about the picture's early use of the color format but watching today I can't really concur. It's not anywhere near as vibrant as the same era's "The Adventures of Robin Hood' (1938) or the following year's "The Wizard of Oz". Granted, not the same budget obviously so I guess you can give it some slack. The technical effects for the time were fairly well done I thought, what with those talking snakes and all.
For his part, Sabu was quite the accomplished non-actor after having been discovered by the Korda's in the late 1930's. He quite obviously looks the part of the young but principled savage who grows up simultaneously in dual worlds of Man and the Jungle. His disillusionment with the 'civilized' world along with the trio of greedy Indian merchants was strongly reminiscent of the central characters in 1948's "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre", and if you watch closely, his vine swing with Mahala (Patricia O'Rourke) looked like it was carbon-copied by those two young actors in the very first "Star Wars" film - you know who I mean.
Never excites or intrigues - for me, at least
r96sk22 March 2021
I didn't find entertainment watching this 'Jungle Book'. I will say, as many others have, colour-wise it looks real neat.
I'm admittedly not a huge fan of any adaptation of this classic story yet, though do thoroughly enjoy the 1994 and 2016 versions; as well as liking the 1967 animated attempt, of course. This 1942 film is my least favourite so far.
The way it is all told didn't interest me all that much. The stuff with the animals looks - welfare concerns aside - good, but what hampers it most in my opinion is that it puts heavy focus on the humans. I didn't feel satisfied watching any of the onscreen talent. The performances of Sabu (Mowgli), Joseph Calleia (Buldeo) & Co. didn't do anything for me. There's also, as you might expect, inappropriate casting/make-up.
It's not a terrible film, just one of those that drags as it never excites or intrigues - for me, at least.
I'm admittedly not a huge fan of any adaptation of this classic story yet, though do thoroughly enjoy the 1994 and 2016 versions; as well as liking the 1967 animated attempt, of course. This 1942 film is my least favourite so far.
The way it is all told didn't interest me all that much. The stuff with the animals looks - welfare concerns aside - good, but what hampers it most in my opinion is that it puts heavy focus on the humans. I didn't feel satisfied watching any of the onscreen talent. The performances of Sabu (Mowgli), Joseph Calleia (Buldeo) & Co. didn't do anything for me. There's also, as you might expect, inappropriate casting/make-up.
It's not a terrible film, just one of those that drags as it never excites or intrigues - for me, at least.
Neglected Gem
dougdoepke27 January 2021
As a kid in a small mountain town some 70-years ago, I tried never to miss a Sabu movie whenever the family visited Denver. Now I again know why. The sheer cinematic majesty of a Jungle Book (1942) remains a near equal to the alpine majesty of my youth. Thanks be to whoever remastered the original whose colors now shine through like a Technicolor kaleidoscope. Whether it's the spectacle of the exotic jungle, or the creatures roaming and roaring, or Sabu communing with his adopted surroundings, the eye entertainment never lets up.
There is, however, more to the plot than meets the eye. On the surface it's about three greedy settler types who lust after a fortune of gold coins, jewels, and a ruby adorned sceptre, all hidden in a decaying marble temple deep in the jungle. They're quite willing to sacrifice anybody or anything to escape the with the riches. Blocking them is Sabu who's been reared by a jungle wolfpack, speaks animal language, and identifies with the sanctity of its creatures. Whether with alligators, panthers, or cobras as pardners, he is one with the primitive ecosystem and will not let the thieves undermine the harmonious balance. After all, what's to prevent the thieves from returning with others for even more still-hidden riches. Given these elements, it's not too difficult to construe a contemporary allegory in the stuggle between extractive corporations and the natural environment that dominates much of the news. I particularly liked Sabu's natural amazement that artificial creations like gold coins would possess more value in the eyes of the thieves than even food itself, amounting to a kind of Back to Basics point of view. And catch that grabber unHollywood ending, in both storyline and visuals.
At the same time, I'm amazed that the entire production never left the LA area (IMDB). All in all, that's a real tribute to Hollywood magic well before the advent of digital technology. Then too, the only evidence of Hollywood celebrity is dark-eyed Sabu's alleged mother blue-eyed Rosemary De Camp, best kown for the long-running TV serries, The Bob Cumming Show (1955-59). Also, and most importantly, Sabu shines as the 'wolf pack' boy, bringing a naturalness and energy perfectly suited to his role. I hope he was paid double for all that running, jumping and swimming, or at least given an Olympics tryout.
Anyway, I hope this hidden gem gets the kind of ballyhoo it richly deserves, for both it's spectacle and message should resonate with contemporary audiences.
There is, however, more to the plot than meets the eye. On the surface it's about three greedy settler types who lust after a fortune of gold coins, jewels, and a ruby adorned sceptre, all hidden in a decaying marble temple deep in the jungle. They're quite willing to sacrifice anybody or anything to escape the with the riches. Blocking them is Sabu who's been reared by a jungle wolfpack, speaks animal language, and identifies with the sanctity of its creatures. Whether with alligators, panthers, or cobras as pardners, he is one with the primitive ecosystem and will not let the thieves undermine the harmonious balance. After all, what's to prevent the thieves from returning with others for even more still-hidden riches. Given these elements, it's not too difficult to construe a contemporary allegory in the stuggle between extractive corporations and the natural environment that dominates much of the news. I particularly liked Sabu's natural amazement that artificial creations like gold coins would possess more value in the eyes of the thieves than even food itself, amounting to a kind of Back to Basics point of view. And catch that grabber unHollywood ending, in both storyline and visuals.
At the same time, I'm amazed that the entire production never left the LA area (IMDB). All in all, that's a real tribute to Hollywood magic well before the advent of digital technology. Then too, the only evidence of Hollywood celebrity is dark-eyed Sabu's alleged mother blue-eyed Rosemary De Camp, best kown for the long-running TV serries, The Bob Cumming Show (1955-59). Also, and most importantly, Sabu shines as the 'wolf pack' boy, bringing a naturalness and energy perfectly suited to his role. I hope he was paid double for all that running, jumping and swimming, or at least given an Olympics tryout.
Anyway, I hope this hidden gem gets the kind of ballyhoo it richly deserves, for both it's spectacle and message should resonate with contemporary audiences.
Korda's film has flashes of beauty, but this adaptation is a bit over-stretched...
moonspinner5516 October 2007
Rudyard Kipling's classic story of an infant boy in India stolen from his mother and later raised by wolves in the jungle is given colorfully cinematic treatment from the Korda Brothers, who skimp quite a bit on Baloo the Bear but give us lots of other fanciful things: talking snakes, a cursed fortune of gold, a forest fire, and villainous human characters more deadly than just about any of the animals. Sabu has the lead, and though Mowgli grows up in one quick cut from the film-editor (and learns the English language nearly as quickly!), Sabu provides a sturdy, confident center for the picture and nearly holds the narrative together. The cinematography is occasionally beautiful, though the choppiness of the continuity (and the repetitive shots of tiger Shere Khan) keeps the movie from really blooming. Too much of the mid-section follows three would-be thieves in and out of the jungle, and I felt bad for the monkeys in the Lost City (we never see them escape the fire, and indeed hear their howls over a shot of the ruins). Still, "Jungle Book" is visually impressive and mostly entertaining if you're not too demanding. **1/2 from ****
Dated, but entertaining
RoamingTigress4 July 2005
I had first seen this movie a number of years ago when my dad rented it for me. Back then, I was at an age were I got fidgety during long movies but this is one that I didn't take my eyes off of this old movie. I was drawn in by the animal cast, especially the beautiful tiger who portrayed Shere Khan.
However, after buying the DVD, I have realized how dated this movie is. The sound isn't all that great. Many of the special affects are a little obvious, as is the fact that the animals are being given commands off screen. Nonetheless, it is an entertaining movie that is a fun watch on a rainy day.
However, after buying the DVD, I have realized how dated this movie is. The sound isn't all that great. Many of the special affects are a little obvious, as is the fact that the animals are being given commands off screen. Nonetheless, it is an entertaining movie that is a fun watch on a rainy day.
I feel young again!
Marko-306 September 1999
This is probably the first movie I have seen. That is the reason why I want to write about it. Every time I watch this movie I remember when I was just a child. I loved this movie and I still do.
The Jungle Book is one of the first color movies ever made and you can see that... but that doesn`t matter because the level of entertainment is so high. Actors in this movie are great but so is the staging.. and matter a fact so is everything else. It is not hard to believe that this picture got a few oscar nomination.
After all, excellent movie and lot of nostalgia... at least for me.
*****
The Jungle Book is one of the first color movies ever made and you can see that... but that doesn`t matter because the level of entertainment is so high. Actors in this movie are great but so is the staging.. and matter a fact so is everything else. It is not hard to believe that this picture got a few oscar nomination.
After all, excellent movie and lot of nostalgia... at least for me.
*****
There Were Snakes in the Jungle
wes-connors29 September 2007
Sabu (as Mowgli) is raised by wolves after his father is killed in the jungles of India. After a dozen or so years as an "animal", he encounters a village of humans. The village includes his natural mother Rosemary DeCamp (as Messua), who coincidently takes him in, and teaches him to speak English. But, adjusting to human life is difficult. Sabu discovers humans are a mixed bag
Beautiful color photography is the highlight of "Jungle Book". Additionally, the performance of Sabu is certainly intense; his eyes, in introductory scenes, really seem like the eyes of someone raised by wolves! Storyteller Joseph Calleia (as Buldeo) is charming. This is, however, a very lethargic movie. I expected to like the "village" scenes, but was surprised to favor the non-talking jungle scenes. Okay, GIANT English speaking SNAKES are exempt from the previous sentence. I did like the pursuit of the ordinary non-speaking tiger. Admittedly, I'm not a "Jungle Book" movie fan, but I do recall seeing another version; and, this one is better...
****** Jungle Book (4/3/42) Alexander Korda : Zoltan Korda ~ Sabu, Joseph Calleia, Rosemary DeCamp
Beautiful color photography is the highlight of "Jungle Book". Additionally, the performance of Sabu is certainly intense; his eyes, in introductory scenes, really seem like the eyes of someone raised by wolves! Storyteller Joseph Calleia (as Buldeo) is charming. This is, however, a very lethargic movie. I expected to like the "village" scenes, but was surprised to favor the non-talking jungle scenes. Okay, GIANT English speaking SNAKES are exempt from the previous sentence. I did like the pursuit of the ordinary non-speaking tiger. Admittedly, I'm not a "Jungle Book" movie fan, but I do recall seeing another version; and, this one is better...
****** Jungle Book (4/3/42) Alexander Korda : Zoltan Korda ~ Sabu, Joseph Calleia, Rosemary DeCamp
More color than a Disney Animated
susand110812 January 2021
Breathtaking color and astonishing cinematography make this a must-see. In addition, the work with live wild animals is impressive. The story, a mashup of several Kipling stories, addresses themes of greed, xenophobia, and mob rule, while showcasing the incredible beauty of the production design. Sabu's natural talent, as well as his physical agility and beauty are utilized perfectly. Also, Rosemary DeCamp, who plays his mother, is as always, a wonderful asset to the picture.
looks good in Technicolor
SnoopyStyle5 October 2014
In an Indian village, elderly storyteller Buldeo tells a story of his youth to a passing British lady. Shere Khan the tiger attacked just as the villagers are about to start a new settlement. The man's cub survives the attack and wonders into a wolves' den. Mowgli is then raised by the wolf family. All the jungle is his playground except for Shere Khan. Twelve years later, he investigates the village and is captured by the villagers. His birth mother Messua doesn't recognize him but takes him in anyways as her own. Buldeo is adamant against the boy who he sees as evil like the rest of the jungle. On the other hand, Buldeo's daughter Mahala is fascinated with Mowgli. Mowgli takes Mahala back into the jungle to meet the wolves. She finds the King's Palace in the jungle and his treasure chamber guarded by the ancient father of the cobras. Despite the cobra's warning, she takes one coin which is discovered by her father.
This looks terrific in Technicolor although the village doesn't look as good as the jungle. All the animal footage is very fascinating. The animals look great in color. The treasure chamber is also quite nice with the ancient city. It's most commendable that they cast an Indian boy as Mowgli. The animal characters don't have quite as much of a presence as the Disney cartoon. This is a little more grown up than the cartoon. It deals with some fairly adult subject matters. Overall, the story moves along with enough thrills and is a fun treat from another era. Although the ending feels like it ran on for a little too long.
This looks terrific in Technicolor although the village doesn't look as good as the jungle. All the animal footage is very fascinating. The animals look great in color. The treasure chamber is also quite nice with the ancient city. It's most commendable that they cast an Indian boy as Mowgli. The animal characters don't have quite as much of a presence as the Disney cartoon. This is a little more grown up than the cartoon. It deals with some fairly adult subject matters. Overall, the story moves along with enough thrills and is a fun treat from another era. Although the ending feels like it ran on for a little too long.
Not Very Engaging
evanston_dad27 July 2023
I came to "Jungle Book" for the beautiful Technicolor cinematography everyone was raving about. It is a pretty good looking movie for the time period, but the scenes set outside of the jungle do have that flat, garish look so common to color films from the 1940s. It's probably easy to underestimate now what a big deal it was that an actor like Sabu could carry a film at a time when most roles of color (and even some in this movie) were played by white actors in makeup. But I wasn't very engaged in this movie. Nothing about it is especially bad, but nothing is ever thrilling either, and the worst crime a jungle adventure can commit is to be "meh."
Grade: C.
Grade: C.
Visually stunning and hugely entertaining
TheLittleSongbird20 June 2012
As a child, I loved this 1942 film Jungle Book. As a 20-year old adult, I still do, my favourite version of the story alongside the less faithful but just as fun 1967 Disney film. As with all Korda Brothers films(The Four Feathers being my personal favourite), the film is full of beautiful scenery and cinematography as well as an exotic atmosphere. Miklos Rozsa's score is suitably stirring with an authentic touch, while the story is exciting and amusing with a real adventurous streak about it and the pace not dragging too much. The jungle animals look great and are colourful characters in their own right, and the film is lovingly directed as always. Sabu is a likable and athletic lead, Joseph Calleia is terrific as Buldeo and Rosemary De Camp is a sympathetic mother figure. My only complaint is the romance, which was not as developed as it could have been. Overall though, I still love this film and still thinks it holds up today. 9/10 Bethany Cox
Jungle Fever
utgard142 December 2013
Colorful live-action version of the Rudyard Kipling classic. The story is about a boy raised by wolves who tries to adapt to life with humans. I grew up with the Disney animated film so I suppose that will always be "my" Jungle Book but I still enjoyed this film very much. Great-looking sets, beautiful technicolor, well-directed action scenes, fine Miklos Rosza score, and a solid cast make this a highly enjoyable movie. Sabu is perfectly cast as Mowgli. Great character actors Joseph Calleia, John Qualen, and Frank Puglia all play parts unlike anything else I've ever seen them in and they do quite well. It's a really fun adventure film with lots of heart.
Mixed bag
Philipp_Flersheim21 October 2021
I give this film 5 stars because I feel quite ambivalent about it. On the upside, there are the stunning photography (the wildlife!), parts of the set and some of the acting (Sabu, DeCamp, O'Rourke). On the other hand, Calleia is pretty dreadful. His overacting is hard to bear. What is truly shocking, considering that the British had been in India for more than 200 years when this film was made, is the staggering level of ignorance about that country. Of course Kipling's tale is in any case a colonialist fantasy, but it is a nice fantasy and Kipling made at least an effort, for instance using Hindi names. No comparable effort was made when this film was produced. For example, no one seems to have realised that Buddhism was not the dominant religion of rural India. The sets showing the ruined city in the jungle are hideous, with the statues caricatures of Indian sculpture. And the producers did not even manage to recruit a few Indians as extras - there must have been some available, war or no war. On balance, I can't say I much enjoyed watching this film.
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