The 2021 Disney film “Jungle Cruise,” starring Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt, took audiences on a thrilling ride down the Amazon River. With its blend of adventure, comedy, and heart, it captured the essence of classic adventure films while adding a modern twist. If you’ve found yourself craving more movies that offer a similar mix of excitement, laughter, and charm, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ll explore ten movies that share the spirit of “Jungle Cruise,” each offering its own unique take on the adventure-comedy genre.
1. Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)
Much like “Jungle Cruise,” “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” is a Disney production that takes viewers on a swashbuckling adventure filled with supernatural elements, witty banter, and charismatic leads. Johnny Depp’s iconic portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow, a roguish pirate with a heart of gold, mirrors Dwayne Johnson’s Frank Wolff in many ways. Both characters are charming, quick-witted, and have a penchant for getting into and out of trouble with style.
The chemistry between Sparrow and Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley) echoes that of Frank and Lily (Emily Blunt) in “Jungle Cruise.” Both pairings feature strong-willed, intelligent women who find themselves reluctantly teaming up with unlikely allies. The banter and growing mutual respect between these characters drive both films forward.
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“Pirates of the Caribbean” also shares “Jungle Cruise’s” love for supernatural plot devices. Instead of an ancient tree with miraculous healing powers, we have cursed Aztec gold and undead pirates. Both films use these fantastical elements to raise the stakes and add an extra layer of excitement to their already thrilling adventures.
2. The Mummy (1999)
“The Mummy” is another adventure-comedy that shares DNA with “Jungle Cruise.” Set in 1926 Egypt, it follows librarian Evelyn Carnahan (Rachel Weisz) and American adventurer Rick O’Connell (Brendan Fraser) as they accidentally awaken an ancient, cursed mummy. The film’s blend of action, humor, and romance is strikingly similar to “Jungle Cruise.”
Like Emily Blunt’s Lily, Evelyn is a knowledgeable, determined woman who’s underestimated by her male peers. Her journey from bookish academic to brave adventurer parallels Lily’s transformation. Rick O’Connell, with his roguish charm and combat skills, is a clear predecessor to Frank Wolff. Both men start as mercenary figures but develop genuine feelings for their strong-willed partners.
“The Mummy” also shares “Jungle Cruise’s” love for grand, globe-trotting adventures and supernatural threats. The ancient curses, hidden treasures, and daring escapes in both films harken back to the golden age of adventure cinema, making them perfect companions for a movie marathon.
3. National Treasure (2004)
While “National Treasure” swaps jungles and pirates for American history and Freemasons, it shares “Jungle Cruise’s” spirit of adventure and discovery. Nicolas Cage stars as Benjamin Gates, a historian and cryptographer on a quest to find a legendary treasure hidden by the Founding Fathers. Like “Jungle Cruise,” the film is a thrilling scavenger hunt filled with puzzles, clues, and narrow escapes.
Ben Gates, like Lily Houghton, is passionate about his quest and willing to go to extreme lengths to prove his theories. His sidekick, Riley Poole (Justin Bartha), provides comic relief much like Jack Whitehall’s MacGregor in “Jungle Cruise.” Both characters offer witty commentary and unexpected moments of bravery.
“National Treasure” may not have supernatural elements, but it compensates with intricate historical mysteries and high-stakes action sequences. The joy of uncovering hidden truths and racing against villainous competitors is present in both films, making “National Treasure” a great pick for “Jungle Cruise” fans.
4. Romancing the Stone (1984)
“Romancing the Stone” is a classic that heavily influenced later adventure-comedies, including “Jungle Cruise.” It follows romance novelist Joan Wilder (Kathleen Turner) as she’s thrust into a real-life adventure in Colombia, guided by the rugged Jack Colton (Michael Douglas). The parallels with “Jungle Cruise” are striking.
Joan, like Lily, is a fish out of water in the jungle, but she’s resourceful and braver than she initially appears. Jack Colton, with his roguish charm and local knowledge, is a clear precursor to Frank Wolff. Their banter and growing attraction amid dangerous escapades set the template that “Jungle Cruise” follows decades later.
Both films feature exotic locations, treasure maps, and colorful villains. They also share a love for subverting gender roles, with their female leads proving just as capable (if not more so) than their male counterparts. “Romancing the Stone” is a delightful precursor to “Jungle Cruise” that still holds up today.
5. Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
No list of adventure movies would be complete without mentioning “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” the film that redefined the genre for the modern era. While it’s more serious in tone than “Jungle Cruise,” it shares many elements that make both films so enjoyable.
Harrison Ford’s Indiana Jones, like Frank Wolff, is a daring adventurer with a dry wit and a knack for getting out of tight spots. His global quest for the Ark of the Covenant mirrors the search for the Tears of the Moon in “Jungle Cruise.” Both films feature ancient artifacts with supernatural powers, rival expeditions, and daring escapes.
Marion Ravenwood (Karen Allen) may not be a scientist like Lily, but she’s equally feisty and capable. Her banter with Indy influenced countless adventure-comedy romances, including the dynamic between Frank and Lily. The blend of action, humor, and a touch of the supernatural in “Raiders” makes it a must-watch for any “Jungle Cruise” fan.
6. The African Queen (1951)
“The African Queen” is a classic that directly inspired “Jungle Cruise”. Set in Africa during World War I, it follows prim missionary Rose Sayer (Katharine Hepburn) and rough-around-the-edges boat captain Charlie Allnut (Humphrey Bogart) as they navigate dangerous waters and German forces.
The similarities to “Jungle Cruise” are clear. Both films feature journeys down treacherous rivers in rickety boats, led by captains who are more capable than they first appear. The banter and growing affection between Rose and Charlie is the blueprint for Frank and Lily’s relationship. Both pairs start at odds but come to respect and care for each other.
While “The African Queen” lacks supernatural elements and has a wartime backdrop, its blend of adventure, humor, and heart is pure “Jungle Cruise.” It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of this storytelling formula that Disney chose to model their 2021 blockbuster on this 1951 classic.
7. The Princess Bride (1987)
“The Princess Bride” might seem an odd choice at first, being a fairy tale parody rather than a jungle adventure. However, its blend of swashbuckling action, clever humor, and heartfelt romance makes it spiritually akin to “Jungle Cruise.”
The film’s hero, Westley (Cary Elwes), shares Frank Wolff’s resourcefulness and wit. Whether he’s dueling, scaling cliffs, or outwitting villains, Westley does it with a smirk and a quip. His banter with Princess Buttercup (Robin Wright) echoes the playful verbal sparring between Frank and Lily.
“The Princess Bride” also shares “Jungle Cruise’s” love for colourful side characters. Inigo Montoya and Fezzik are as memorable in their way as MacGregor or the jaguar in “Jungle Cruise.” Both films understand that great adventures aren’t just about the leads, but the whole ensemble.
8. Journey to the Center of the Earth (2008)
This modern adaptation of Jules Verne’s classic novel shares “Jungle Cruise’s” love for adventure, discovery, and family bonds. Brendan Fraser (pulling double duty on this list) plays Professor Trevor Anderson, who, along with his nephew Sean (Josh Hutcherson) and guide Hannah (Anita Briem), journeys into the Earth’s core.
Like “Jungle Cruise,” Journey to the Center of the Earth balances thrilling action sequences with humor and heart. The underground world they discover is as wondrous and dangerous as the jungle in “Jungle Cruise,” filled with prehistoric creatures instead of cursed conquistadors. Both films revel in the joy of exploring uncharted territories.
The relationship between Trevor and Sean adds a family dynamic similar to that between Lily and MacGregor. In both cases, the adventure helps strengthen familial bonds. “Journey to the Center of the Earth” proves that whether the adventure is in a steaming jungle or a subterranean wonderland, the key ingredients of excitement, laughter, and warmth remain the same.
9. Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017)
It’s no coincidence that both “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” and “Jungle Cruise” star Dwayne Johnson. Both films showcase his talent for blending action, comedy, and genuine emotion. In “Jumanji,” Johnson plays Dr. Smolder Bravestone, the avatar of a shy teenager trapped in a video game jungle.
Like “Jungle Cruise,” “Jumanji” uses its jungle setting for both thrills and laughs. From rampaging rhinos to bazaar chases, it shares the earlier film’s love for over-the-top action. The banter between the characters, each played by an adult actor but representing a teen, adds a unique comedic twist.
Both films also share a theme of personal growth through adventure. Just as Lily and Frank learn and change through their journey, the teens in “Jumanji” gain confidence and understanding by facing jungle perils. It’s a reminder that the best adventure stories are also journeys of self-discovery.
10. The Road to El Dorado (2000)
Our final entry is the only animated film on the list, but “The Road to El Dorado” earns its place with its adventurous spirit and witty humor. Set in the age of Spanish exploration, it follows con artists Miguel and Tulio as they stumble upon the legendary city of gold, El Dorado.
Despite being a cartoon, “The Road to El Dorado” shares much with “Jungle Cruise.” Both are set against the backdrop of European incursions into the Americas, and both feature a search for a mythical treasure. The bickering but loyal friendship between Miguel and Tulio mirrors the banter between Frank and Lily.
The film also shares “Jungle Cruise’s” irreverent take on history. Just as “Jungle Cruise” playfully tweaks the legends of the Amazon, “El Dorado” gleefully reimagines the Spanish conquest. Both films remind us that even serious history can be a playground for adventure and comedy.
Wrap Up
From the high seas of the Caribbean to the hidden cities of the Incas, these ten films share “Jungle Cruise’s” winning formula of adventure, comedy, and heart. They remind us that the joy of discovery, the thrill of danger, and the warmth of growing friendships never go out of style.
Whether it’s the supernatural quests of “Pirates of the Caribbean” and “The Mummy,” the historical mysteries of “National Treasure” and “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” or the pure adventure-romance of “Romancing the Stone” and “The African Queen,” each film offers its own unique twist on the genre. They prove that the spirit of “Jungle Cruise” has been alive in cinema for decades, from classic Hollywood to modern blockbusters.
These films also share a love for strong, capable heroines. From Elizabeth Swann and Evelyn Carnahan to Rose Sayer and Princess Buttercup, these women are every bit as crucial to the adventure as their male counterparts. They’re a testament to the fact that bravery, wit, and determination know no gender.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for a film that will make you laugh, gasp, and maybe even shed a tear, consider one of these “Jungle Cruise” kindred spirits. Whether you’re exploring a cursed jungle, a booby-trapped tomb, or a magical board game, the adventure is sure to be unforgettable. After all, in the words of Dwayne Johnson’s Frank Wolff, “If you believe in legends, you’re halfway there.” These movies prove that when it comes to great adventure-comedies, the legend lives on.