Sheena

On a perilous safari, young Sheena loses her parents and is taken in by a hermetic shamanic healer from a secret African tribe. Growing up under her foster mother's care, she learns to read animal speech and read the jungle as if it were a map. When the tribe's leader is targeted by a ruthless faction seeking power, the trusted elder is accused, and Sheena, joined by a newsman named Vic Casey, must run to clear her guardian's name. Pursued by mercenaries equipped with cold blooded weapons, they dodge traps and political intrigue. Sheena's bond with the wildlife and her knowledge of the forest offer unexpected advantages against superior firepower. Chase blends action with mysticism and humor as allies emerge.

Directed by John Guillermin, this big budget adventure draws on the long running Sheena saga and the comic book roots of the character. Screenplay by David Newman, Lorenzo Semple Jr., and Leslie Stevens. Its visual style nods to classic cinema.

The film grossed roughly 58 million worldwide against a 25 million budget, delivering a solid if modest return for its mid 80s action fantasy stride. Some audiences praised its action while others criticized the pacing and tone at the time.

Today Sheena is mostly remembered as a curiosity from the mid 80s jungle fantasy wave. It didn’t spawn enduring catchphrases or a lasting franchise, but it captures the era's appetite for big scale melodrama and creature effects. Tanya Roberts remains the face most associated with the title among fans today.

Launched amid high hopes, the film earned mixed reviews overall that praised its bold, unabashed fantasy energy but faulted the script and exploitative chases. Viewers who enjoy pulpy adventure will find a confident heroine and brisk set pieces. The themes touch on loyalty, destiny, and harmony between humans and wildlife.