Time Bandits maps contemporary vibes over a cult classic
Jul 31, 2024
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Joining the conversation are Lisa Kudrow, famed for her sharp comedic roles, and Taika Waititi, known for his distinctive storytelling style. They discuss the whimsical adventures in 'Time Bandits', where inept thieves and a British kid navigate through time with a magical map. The nuances of adapting a cult classic come to the forefront, especially regarding character dynamics and emotional depth. Controversies around representation spark engaging debates. They also share their hopes for future seasons, diving into character development and maintaining the show's humor.
The new series 'Time Bandits' combines dry humor with a more coherent narrative, enhancing character development and thematic exploration of history and family.
Criticism surrounding casting choices and character representation highlights the ongoing need for inclusive narratives in children's programming and future adaptations.
Deep dives
Reimagining Time Bandits
The new series reinterprets the original story, focusing on a young history-obsessed boy named Kevin who joins a group of inept time thieves led by Penelope, played by Lisa Kudrow. Unlike the chaotic nature of the original film, this adaptation leans into dry humor and a more coherent narrative structure. Kevin's knowledge of history becomes a crucial element, as he guides the thieves through various time periods, while they often struggle to read the stolen universe map correctly. The dynamic between Kevin and the time bandits adds depth, as he is both a source of knowledge and a point of contention for the group as they navigate the dangers posed by pursuing forces of good and evil.
Character Development and Themes
The series excels in character development, particularly highlighting individual personalities and arcs within the group of thieves. Each character, especially Kudrow's Penelope, is given distinct traits that make them memorable, enhancing the show's engaging comedic elements. Additionally, the exploration of themes surrounding knowledge, friendship, and family dynamics are refreshing within a children’s show context, making it appealing for a pre-teen audience. The narrative thoughtfully addresses how history is perceived and the motivations of its characters, allowing for more nuanced storytelling compared to the original film.
Controversies and Cultural Impact
The new adaptation has faced criticism regarding its casting choices, especially about the absence of actors with dwarfism in the main cast, unlike the original film. This controversy is compounded by the allegedly awkward handling of a character's disappearance mid-season, which reflects poorly on the show's thematic focus on found family. Despite these challenges, the creators have pledged to incorporate more diverse representation in future seasons, aiming to address the concerns raised by critics and audiences alike. The series presents an opportunity to rewrite not only the narrative but also the inclusivity found within children's programming, making it a potential platform for significant cultural discussion.
The dryly funny new Apple TV+ series Time Bandits reimagines the 1981 Terry Gilliam film of the same name. A squad of inept thieves — including their sort-of leader, played by Lisa Kudrow — have stolen a map of the universe. They use it to jump through portals to various time periods to steal stuff. One jump takes them into the bedroom of a British kid (Kal-El Tuck), who tags along as they're chased by Taika Waititi's Supreme Being and Jemaine Clement's Pure Evil.