“Time Bandits” is a surreal and quirky adventure film. A group of dwarves steal a map that leads to time portals, and embark on a wild journey through history. Along the way they encounter Napoleon, Robin Hood, and even God himself. The film is full of absurd humor and fantastical imagery, creating a unique and entertaining experience.
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Review
In Terry Gilliam’s 1981 classic, Time Bandits, a young boy named Kevin (played by Craig Warnock) embarks on an epic adventure through time and space with a group of five thieves who have stolen a map revealing the locations of portals leading to several eras in history.
The film, which features a star-studded cast including Sean Connery, John Cleese, and Ian Holm, is known for its unique blend of science fiction and fantasy elements, as well as its dark humor and poignant commentary on human nature.
Gilliam’s vision for the film was inspired in part by his own childhood fascination with history and mythology. The director has described Time Bandits as “a kind of children’s picture book for adults,” blending elements of classic fairy tales with more adult themes such as greed and corruption.
At the heart of the film is Kevin’s relationship with the Time Bandits themselves: Fidgit (Kenny Baker), Strutter (Malcolm Dixon), Og (Mike Edmonds), Vermin (Tiny Ross), and Wally (Jack Purvis). Each character has their own distinct quirks and motivations, from Fidgit’s empathetic nature to Wally’s constant hunger.
The bandits’ journey through time takes them to various iconic locations throughout history, including ancient Greece, Napoleon-era France, and even the sinking of the Titanic. Along the way they encounter historical figures such as Robin Hood (Cleese) and King Agamemnon (Connery).
Despite its fantastical premise, Time Bandits touches upon serious themes such as mortality and loss. In one memorable scene, Kevin witnesses the destruction of his family home at the hands of a supernatural entity known as “The Supreme Being” (Holm). This event forces Kevin to confront his own mortality and reflect on what truly matters in life.
The film’s eccentric characters are brought to life by an exceptional cast of actors, each of whom brings their own unique energy to the screen. Connery in particular delivers a standout performance as Agamemnon, displaying both his trademark charm and gravitas.
The film’s soundtrack, composed by Michael Kamen, perfectly captures the film’s blend of whimsy and darkness. The score’s use of orchestral instruments and choral arrangements adds to the film’s epic scale and emotional resonance.
Despite its critical success, Time Bandits was not without controversy. Some critics accused the film of being too dark for a family movie, citing its violent imagery and unsettling themes. However, others praised the film for its unapologetic approach to storytelling and willingness to tackle weighty themes in a genre often dismissed as mere escapism.
Looking back on Time Bandits today, it is clear that Gilliam’s vision has endured through the decades. The film remains a beloved cult classic, with fans praising its imaginative storytelling, indelible characters, and timeless message about the value of human connection in an increasingly chaotic world.
As Kevin himself learns throughout his journey with the Time Bandits: “Time travel is not for dreamers… because all they will find are nightmares.” But for those willing to face those nightmares head-on, there is always hope for redemption and growth.
Technical Data
- Release : 1981-07-13
- Runtime : 116
- Genre : Family, Fantasy, Science Fiction, Adventure, Comedy
- Cast : Craig Warnock as Kevin, David Rappaport as Randall, Kenny Baker as Fidgit, Mike Edmonds as Og, Malcolm Dixon as Strutter
- Crew : Terry Gilliam as Director, Terry Gilliam as Producer, Terry Gilliam as Writer, Michael Palin as Writer, Irene Lamb as Casting
- Revenue : $42,365,581
- Budget : $5,000,000
- Company : HandMade Films
- Popularity : 14.754
- Summary : Young history buff Kevin can scarcely believe it when six dwarfs emerge from his closet one night. Former employees of the Supreme Being, they’ve purloined a map charting all of the holes in the fabric of time and are using it to steal treasures from different historical eras. Taking Kevin with them, they variously drop in on Napoleon, Robin Hood and King Agamemnon before the Supreme Being catches up with them.
- Tagline : All the dreams you’ve ever had and not just the good ones.
