'Time Bandits' Review: The Revival Falls Short of Classic Charm

Apple TV+ has taken a swing at revamping the beloved 1981 Terry Gilliam film 'Time Bandits,' but while the updated series brings some fresh elements, it doesn’t quite capture the magic of the original. The original film's charm needed updating for today's audience, but the 2024 version seems to lack the same spark, even though it does manage to entertain with its witty dialogue and engaging characters.

The series showcases Taika Waititi’s familiar comedic touch, thanks to his role as a writer, creator, and actor. Although his trademark humour is present, the series feels like it’s missing the essence that made the film special. It's easy to draw parallels between the series and Waititi’s other work, like 'Our Flag Means Death,' but even though the tone and themes may resonate with fans of his previous projects, the series doesn't feel entirely new or distinct.

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Lisa Kudrow and Kal-El Tuck star as Penelope and Kevin, the heart of the show. Kudrow brings her comedic talent and emotional depth to her role, while Tuck’s portrayal of Kevin—representing the outsider child—is touching. Despite their efforts, the chemistry between them seems a bit off, affecting the central dynamic of the show. The surrogate parent-child relationship, crucial to the series, sometimes feels strained.

Visually, 'Time Bandits' makes nods to its 1980s fantasy roots with its design and settings, which are often impressive. Jemaine Clement’s portrayal of Pure Evil and the polished historical scenes are noteworthy, though some CGI moments miss the mark. As expected from an Apple TV+ production, the series excels in creating immersive worlds, but it struggles to make these worlds feel fully alive.

Despite the series' attempt to blend humour with heart, it often undercuts its emotional moments with jokes or tangents. The narrative can feel overloaded, with too many intersecting storylines that prevent any single arc from developing fully. This overextension might explain why a second season is already being teased—there's plenty of room for more adventures, but the first season leaves some unresolved threads.