Time Bandits Reboot – A Fresh, Humorous Take on the Classic Adventure

You remember the classic movie? Here is a totally new look at it all.

The reboot of “Time Bandits,” directed by Taika Waititi, Iain Morris, and Jemaine Clement, offers a new take on the classic 1981 film. Unlike its predecessor, which had a strong Monty Python influence, this version leans more into humor and narrative depth, making it accessible to a modern audience.

The story introduces Kevin Haddock, an 11-year-old history enthusiast whose knowledge is often dismissed by his family. His adventure begins when he encounters a group of time-traveling bandits led by Penelope, played with perfect deadpan humor by Lisa Kudrow. The bandits use a “time egress” portal located in Kevin’s room, allowing them to access various historical periods by simply pushing walls around.

The series pays homage to the original film while also addressing some of its shortcomings, such as the lack of a language barrier explanation. The introduction of “translation hats” adds a layer of realism, making it plausible for characters to communicate across different eras and cultures. This element, along with the diverse historical and mythological figures they encounter, enriches the storyline.

“Lisa Kudrow Brings Her Daffy Charm to ‘Time Bandits’” by Esther Zuckerman via NYT New York Times https://t.co/eDERKFYgzS

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One of the standout episodes features the bandits in 1810 Macau, interacting with the legendary pirate Madame Zheng. Kevin’s knowledge proves invaluable as he advises Madame Zheng, showcasing how the young boy’s historical insights become crucial to the narrative. The scene cleverly mixes historical accuracy with the show’s unique comedic tone, making it both educational and entertaining.

The reboot also introduces new characters and settings that broaden the scope of the story. Jemaine Clement’s portrayal of Pure Evil adds a modern, humorous twist, replacing the more apocalyptic vibe of the original with a more whimsical and engaging character. The lair of Pure Evil is described as more visually appealing, akin to a setting from “Thor: Ragnarok,” adding a contemporary aesthetic to the show.

The inclusion of culturally diverse figures and historical events offers a broader perspective than the original, which mainly focused on European history. This diversity, combined with the show’s clever writing and humor, makes it appealing to both new viewers and fans of the original film.

A reimagined ‘Time Bandits’ takes viewers on a delightful historical adventure https://t.co/XTKYneHzXE

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Key Points:

• The “Time Bandits” reboot by Taika Waititi, Iain Morris, and Jemaine Clement modernizes the 1981 classic.
• 11-year-old Kevin Haddock joins time-traveling bandits, led by Penelope (Lisa Kudrow), who traverse historical eras.
• The series incorporates cultural encounters, addressing language barriers with “translation hats.”
• The reboot includes Monty Python-esque humor and clever nods to the original, like the Stonehenge scene.
• Jemaine Clement’s Pure Evil and a diverse cast add depth and humor, making the series more engaging and inclusive.

Susan Guglielmo – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News