Is Apple TVs Time Bandits a reboot of the 1981 film? Everything you need to know

Is Apple TVs Time Bandits a reboot of the 1981 film? Everything you need to know
Is Apple TVs Time Bandits a reboot of the 1981 film? Everything you need to know (Image via Apple TV+)

Time Bandits is back. The all-new episodes of the show were released on July 24, 2024, on Apple TV+. Time Bandits follows a group of thieves who use a magical map to steal treasures from different eras.

With the direction of Terry Gilliam, produced by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, Time Bandits is available as a series from the 1981 film of the same name. Currently, it's streaming on Apple TV+. In an interview with Yahoo UK, the stars of the show shared their experiences on July 24, 2024.

The new Time Bandits series is not just a reboot but a sequel. Terry Gilliam’s original Time Bandits (1981) portrayed passive villainy through a nerdy boy, Kevin Haddock, whose knowledge becomes his superpower during adventures with six small beings and a stolen map.

Apple TV+'s 2024 version, starring Kal-El Tuck as Kevin, retains this theme. However, the modern Kevin is geekier and more resigned to his outcast status than Craig Warnock's 1981 portrayal, emphasizing his relatable appeal as a misunderstood child whose intelligence and curiosity drive the story's adventures.


Time Bandits and its episodes

This Apple TV+ show consists of 10 episodes, with four already announced. Here's a simple overview of the first four episodes:

The very first episode, Kevin Haddock is out. Jemaine Clement, Iain Morris and Taika Waititi wrote this episode, which he directed. It introduces the 11-year-old history buff Kevin. Time-traveling bandits chased by Vikings crash into Kevin's bedroom, and he joins their time-traveling adventures.

The second episode, Mayan, takes Kevin and the bandits to ancient Maya civilization. They face new challenges and historical figures while searching for treasures.

The third episode, Mediaeval, is scheduled for July 31, 2024. Iain Morris and Jemaine Clement set the bandits in medieval times. They face knights, castles and other medieval adventures to outrun their pursuers.

The fourth episode, Prohibition, written by Akilah Green, is scheduled to air on July 31, 2024. In the 1920s, the bandits face Prohibition. They explore speakeasies and gangsters, adding a unique twist to their time-traveling adventures.

Time Bandits is created by What We Do In The Shadows. Jemaine Clement, Iain Morris and Taika Waititi bring their creative vision to the series, ensuring it stays true to the spirit of the original film while introducing modern elements.

The central story begins with the time travelers being chased by Vikings and crashing into Kevin's bedroom. Kevin, a history enthusiast, finds himself caught up in their wild adventures.

His parents, played by James Dryden and Felicity Ward, are unimpressed by his tales, adding a humorous dynamic to the plot. As the series progresses, Kevin's interactions with the time bandits lead to a series of exciting and unpredictable events.

The series has undergone significant changes in its new iteration. One notable change is the casting of the bandits. In the original film, the bandits were played by actors with dwarfism. In the new series, this aspect has been updated, leading to some controversy.

However, the series introduces new roles for little people later on, making the changes easier to accept. The show’s creators have made these adjustments to bring a fresh perspective while maintaining the core essence of the original.


The cast of the new show

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This newly released show features many established and rising stars. Penelope is played by Lisa Kudrow, a comedian. Ka-El Tuck plays Kevin, the young boy who joins the bandits. Tadhg Murphy plays Alto, Roger Jean Nsengiyumva Widgit, Rune Temte Bittelig, Charlyne Yi Judy, Rachel House Fianna and Kiera Thompson Saffron are the bandits.

Guest stars include Jemaine Clement, Taika Waititi, James Dryden, Felicity Ward, Jonathan Brugh, Ross Noble, Zoë Ventoura, Génesis Mancheren Ab'äj, Matt King and George Houvardas.

Time Bandits brings back the magic of the original film while adding new elements and characters. The 1981 cult classic's whimsical and adventurous spirit is captured in the series.

The show will appeal to old and new fans with its talented cast, engaging plot, and creative team. The series promises more thrilling time-traveling adventures and comedic moments that define Time Bandits.

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Edited by Bhargav
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