John Carter (Two Disc Blu-ray/DVD combo) review

Film adapts Edgar Rice Burroughs' story
by Matthew Price Published: June 1, 2012

‘John Carter' (Two-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo)

Disney adapted the 100-year-old story “The Princess of Mars” to film with the nondescript title “John Carter.”

The film was perceived as a box-office failure, but it's got quite a bit to recommend it, especially to fans of the book.

“The Princess of Mars” is the first story featuring former Confederate Capt. John Carter; it appeared in the pulp magazine All-Story in 1912.

It was written by Edgar Rice Burroughs, known for creating Tarzan.

After the Civil War, Carter has become a prospector, seeking gold in the caves of Arizona.

He awakens 48 million miles away on Mars, called “Barsoom” by the natives.

The lesser gravity of the planet gives him powers beyond those of the natives.

Despite this, he's outnumbered and taken captive by the Tharks, a fierce, six-limbed race.

Willem Dafoe voices the CGI Tars Tarkas, who leads the Tharks.

Carter's tenacity eventually wins over the Tharks, and wins him the heart of the red-skinned Princess of Helium, Dejah Thoris.

Dejah's people are in trouble, her city-state near being conquered by their enemies the Zodangas.

Dejah is promised in marriage to Zodanga leader Sab Than (Dominic West), himself under the control of the Therns, a sneaky race with access to advanced technology manipulating all sides for their own interests.

by Matthew Price
Features Editor
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