Tarzan and the Lion Man (1934) by Edgar Rice Burroughs follows a Hollywood film crew shooting a jungle picture in Africa. Cowardly actor Stanley Obroski, who plays the mighty "Lion Man," becomes stranded with actress Rhoda Terwilliger in a hidden valley ruled by a giant gorilla deity worshipped by savage beast-men. Facing terrifying ordeals, Stanley discovers true courage and eventually slays the monstrous god. Meanwhile, Tarzan, who strikingly resembles Stanley, is recruited to portray the Lion Man in Hollywood, causing comic confusion. Blending satire of the film industry with classic jungle adventure, the novel culminates in Tarzan's return and the heroes' dramatic rescue.
