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Disney direct-to-video sequels continue to improve by working with the formula that Disney established for their theatrical films. Less a sequel and more a prequel (a more light hearted one at that) to Disney’s underrated “Tarzan” feature film, “Tarzan II” follows the title character as a self doubting young boy who feels like he just doesn’t fit in because he’s not an ape. Tarzan gets separated from his mother while traveling with the band of gorillas he belongs to and gets lost on Dark Mountain where he meets the Zugor the local boogeyman. There are number of thrilling set pieces including a sequence set on a log bridge expertly using CGI where Tarzan is thrown off the bridge as it collapses.Featuring a strong cast of voice talent including veteran actress Glenn Close, comedian/actor George Carlin, actor Brad Garrett (“Everybody Loves Raymond”) and Estelle Parsons ( also from “Everybody Loves Raymond”), “Tarzan” is perfect at 72 minutes for tikes. There are three new songs by songwriter/singer Phil Collins for this film. The formula may be tried-and-true in this sequel but it works well and makes for an entertaining diversion for children 5 to 13 years of age. ---

Disney continues to be very generous with their extras for their direct-to-video sequels. We get a decent featurette that focuses on the making of the movie. Featuring interviews with the cast including Estelle Parsons, Harrison Chad, George Carlin as well as co-writer/director Brian Smith, we’re treated to behind-the-scene footage of the recording sessions for the movie. Close comments on the difficulty in working without other actors and bringing something special to the performance and Carlin discusses how the writers broght his “voice” to the role he was hired for. Phil Collins appears in a sequence from the recording session with young singer Tiffany Evans. He also comments on the difficulty in writing songs for a movie vs. writing material to perform for his albums. We also get a music video featuring Tiffany Evans performing Collins’ song “Who Am I?” ***

One game and one activity are included for the kids. In “Gorilla Grumble Game” you have to save Tandor by getting the two goofy gorilla brothers from the film to fight mimicking their action. In “Turk and Tandor’s Jungle Guide” you highlight a picture to choose an animal. Whichever animal you choose, you’ll see footage of the animal and be provided with animal facts. Disney also provides previews for other Disney features. ---