| Rank | Episode Title | Why It’s Best | |------|---------------|----------------| | 1 | | Introduces the formula: George rescues Ursula, fights a lion, and ignores the narrator. Classic. | | 2 | "The Malayan Tapir" | A rare episode focusing on a forgotten character. Absurdist humor at its peak. | | 3 | "Next Week – The Elephants!" | The episode constantly breaks the fourth wall, referencing the show’s low budget. | | 4 | "The Trouble with Weeds" | George battles sentient, villainous plants. Bizarre and wonderful. | | 5 | "Dr. Schpritzer’s Island" | Features a mad scientist. The animation errors are part of the charm. |

Is "best" defined by the original cartoon’s Saturday morning charm? The live-action film’s physical comedy? Or the obscure cartoon reboot?

This comprehensive index breaks down the absolute best of the George of the Jungle franchise—ranked, categorized, and verified for maximum entertainment value. Whether you are a long-time fan or introducing George to a new generation, this guide is your definitive table of contents. Before we dive into episodes and quotes, we must index the major productions. Not all George is created equal. 1. George of the Jungle (1967) – The Original Cartoon (Best Nostalgia) The Jay Ward Production. The same studio that gave us Rocky & Bullwinkle . This is the purest, most absurdist version. The animation is cheap, but the writing is razor-sharp. This is the best for purists . 2. George of the Jungle (1997) – Live-Action (Best Overall) Starring Brendan Fraser. Hands down, the fan-favorite. Fraser’s physicality, the breaking of the fourth wall, and the surprisingly heartfelt romance with Ursula (Leslie Mann) make this the definitive version. If you only watch one thing, watch this. 3. George of the Jungle 2 (2003) – Direct-to-Video Sequel (Best for Completionists) Starring Christopher Showerman. A lesser-known sequel that replaces Brendan Fraser but keeps the tone. It’s not as good, but features a cameo from Fraser and the same lovable Ape. Worth it for die-hard fans. 4. The Wild Thornberrys Crossover (Best Obscure) George appears in a bizarre cameo in the Nicktoons universe. Not essential, but a fun footnote for index seekers. 5. George of the Jungle (2007) – Cartoon Reboot (Best for Kids) A modernized, flash-animated version on Cartoon Network. Stripped of the original’s sarcasm, it targets a younger demographic. The least best but has its moments.

The tree. Always the tree.

It holds a 94% Audience Score on Rotten Tomatoes. It has aged flawlessly. It respects the original cartoon’s absurdity while adding heart and physical comedy that only Fraser could deliver. The "tree" gags land every time. John Cleese as Ape is genius casting.

Boom. Looking for the best George of the Jungle movies, episodes, quotes, and scenes? This ultimate index ranks the 1997 classic, the 1967 cartoon, villains, gags, and where to stream them.