Time Bandits is a brand new Apple TV+ show from Jemaine Clement, Iain Morris, and Taika Waititi. It is based on the 1981 movie of the same name created by Monty Python members Terry Gilliam and Michael Palin. The first two episodes released on July 24, with the remaining episodes to be released weekly on the streaming service. The new series stars Lisa Kudrow as Penelope, Kal-El Tuck as Kevin, Jemaine Clement as Pure Evil, and Taika Waititi as the Supreme Being.
What makes the new Time Bandits series tick
The story follows a boy named Kevin, who loves history but struggles to connect with his modern-day classmates and family members. When strange things start happening in his bedroom, he suddenly finds himself in a thrilling adventure traveling through time with a group of bandits!
The new Time Bandits softens the original’s harsh Monty Python idiosyncrasies into a more kid-friendly presentation, with elements of Harry Potter, Doctor Who, Narnia, and Magic Tree House all in one. In a way, I think it would be perfect for fans of Joe Cornish’s 2019 movie The Kid Who Would Be King.
The show thrives on its charm and light comedy, thanks in large part to the earnest intelligence of Kal-El Tuck as Kevin. In the original movie, Craig Warnock’s Kevin is a surprisingly blank character, almost entirely forgettable. In this reimagined portrayal, Kal-El Tuck truly makes the character his own, giving Kevin so much of the vibrant personality and deep emotion that the original movie completely lacked. I fell in love with this character early on thanks to the remastered screenplay and his indelible performance.
Another major highlight of the show are the new bandits, led by Lisa Kudrow’s Penelope. In the original movie, the various thieves all seem interchangeable, but the show makes a distinct point to differentiate the characters by personality, appearance, clothing, and motivations. After only two episodes, I understood these characters more deeply than an entire movie with the original team.
More than anything, I love how Time Bandits is entertaining and educational for kids. The series proves how cool and dynamic history can be without ever feeling like homework. In fact, I’m impressed that this was made by Apple TV+ because it has all the hallmarks of a Disney classic.
How the AppleTV+ series compares to Terry Gilliam’s film
The series remains surprisingly faithful to Gilliam’s film, while adding its own unique flair. The creators have done an outstanding job updating the movie for 2024 without losing the commentary and humor of the original. In fact, the show uses its added runtime to add new scenes that bolster the emotions and characterizations of the original movie. While it’s early to say, it’s possible that this remake may turn out even better than the original.
The new version of Time Bandits comes with a number of surprises in both the storyline and how it treats “well-known” history. I enjoyed how they explore different points in time than the movie, allowing both versions of the story to exist without being redundant. One of the most notable differences is that the 1981 Time Bandits film focuses mainly on European history, while the new series showcases major historical events from various cultures around the world.
I also like the creativity with the historical sets and costumes. Like Terry Gilliam’s movie, there’s an admirable dedication to practical production. However, the modern show is not afraid to use CGI for visual effects as needed, creating a natural blend that fits a 21st century show. Of course, the series is missing Gilliam’s Brazil-ian style, but this decision allows the filmmakers to apply their own unique visions while keeping a Disney-like universal accessibility.
As the series progresses, I would like to see clear story motivations and a better understanding of the Supreme Being and Pure Evil characters. The simple archetypes were fine for the movie, but I expect a little more depth from a 10-episode TV show. While I think it might already be stronger than the original, the Time Bandits series will need to flesh out its story even further to stand on its own merits as well.
My verdict on AppleTV+’s Time Bandits
Overall, the new Time Bandits series is a refreshingly quirky show that’s smart, sweet, and funny. It’s a great recommendation for parents and kids looking for something new but familiar. I’m excited to see how the story evolves!
While it’s perfect for kids, I wouldn’t recommend the new Time Bandits series for adults. Unfortunately, I didn’t find the story or villains super compelling. Beyond the history lessons, the only reason to keep watching would be for the fun episodic adventures and camaraderie of the cast.
I enjoyed the two-episode premiere, and I was surprised by how much of the original story has already been adapted here. This makes me curious to see what happens in the remaining 8 episodes as the show expands beyond the scope of the original movie.
Time Bandits is now streaming weekly on AppleTV+. What did you think of this new show or the original movie? Let me know on X/Twitter @vinwriteswords and remember to follow the site @MyCosmicCircus for more time heists coming soon!
Apple TV+’s Me: A Soft But Engaging Coming-of-Age Story
Those About to Die: A Gritty Look at Ancient Rome’s Gladiators
