A Book Before the Game
Jumanji is adapted from Chris Van Allsburg's illustrated children's book, published in 1981.
Movie
Jumanji
It's a jungle in here.
When siblings Judy and Peter discover an enchanted board game that opens the door to a magical world, they unwittingly invite Alan -- an adult who's been trapped inside the game for 26 years -- into their living room. Alan's only hope for freedom is to finish the game, which proves risky as all three find themselves running from giant rhinoceroses, evil monkeys and other terrifying creatures.
Why it's in the Vault
Jumanji belongs to that rare group of childhood favorites whose magic survives well beyond nostalgia. For anyone who grew up with it on VHS, the sound of those distant jungle drums is enough to bring back an entire world of wonder, danger and adventure. Yet the film deserves its reputation for more than childhood memories. Joe Johnston takes a wonderfully simple premise—a mysterious board game that brings its dangers into the real world—and turns it into an increasingly spectacular adventure, filled with wild animals, destructive surprises and unforgettable set pieces. Robin Williams brings extraordinary warmth to Alan Parrish, a man who has lost decades of his life and must finally confront the fears of his childhood. The pacing occasionally feels a little long, and some visual effects reveal their age, but neither diminishes the strength of the concept, the emotional heart or the sheer pleasure of the adventure. One of those defining VHS classics that remains genuinely excellent, even when nostalgia is taken out of the equation. An absolute favorite.
— Matty, Curator of the Vault*
Atmosphere
Adventurous, magical, chaotic, nostalgic, suspenseful
Childhood wonder
Adventure intensity
Fantastical chaos
Emotional warmth
Contains frightening animals and creatures, intense chase sequences, fantasy peril involving children, gun threats, family loss and themes of childhood trauma. Some scenes may be frightening for younger viewers.
Dans les coulisses
Ce qu'on ne voit pas à l'écran
Robin Williams as Alan Parrish
Williams combines his familiar comic energy with an unexpectedly poignant performance as a man whose childhood was stolen by the game.
The Jungle Comes to Life
The production combines animatronics, practical effects and computer-generated creatures to bring the game's dangers into the real world.
A Different Story from the Book
The original book focuses on two children, Judy and Peter, while the film expands the mythology with Alan Parrish and Sarah Whittle.
The Sound of the Drums
The recurring jungle drums become an instantly recognizable warning that the game is near and another danger is coming.
A Franchise Foundation
The film established the world and central premise later revisited in Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle and its sequel.
Aux origines
Adapted from Jumanji, the 1981 illustrated children's book by Chris Van Allsburg
Palette
Les couleurs du film
Jumanji Jungle#48684B
Ancient Game Wood#795437
Emerald Dice#3E826B
Savannah Gold#C6A05B
Parrish Mansion#897B68
Jungle Midnight#293C35
Images
Photogrammes
Collection
