Plot: What’s it about?
Kevin (Craig Warnock) is a very smart young boy, but he spends more time alone with his thoughts than with friends. So he spends a lot of time inside his room, reading books or letting his vivid imagination run wild. He might not go outside and experience bold adventures, but inside his own mind, he travels the world and beyond. His walls are covered with images of brave knights and evil dragons, as well as other adventure elements. But when he is pulled into a real life adventure, can Kevin manage to hold his own? One night, Kevin was doing his usual routine, when his wardrobe burst open and out flew half a dozen midgets. That alone would be insane, but these midgets have also traveled through time. It seems a time travel device has been stolen from the Supreme Being (Ralph Richardson), so the midgets are racing through the portals of time, in order to keep from being captured with the stolen goods. Kevin, willing or not, is taken as they head toward the next stop, which means he is in for one wild ride. The group soon confronts such historical figures as Robin Hood, King Agamemnon, and even Napoleon. But the gravest challenge comes from the ultimate Evil (David Warner). Can Kevin and the time traveling bandits somehow outwit the Evil, or is this the end of the line?
If you think all family friendly films have to be lame and coated in sugar, then you’re in for a wake up call with Time Bandits. This movie, directed by Monty Python member Terry Gilliam, boldly takes us on an adventure that is grand in scope. Not just in sheer size of the locations or journey, but in the scope of imagination and innovation involved. Gilliam’s usual sense of visual splendor is on total showcase, as is his darker side. But while there is tension and darker undercurrents at times, Time Bandits remains safe even for young children. This is because Gilliam structures the movie on more than one level, so as to ensnare viewers of all ages. The kids will love the visuals and slapstick moments, while older children will appreciate the adventure aspect, then adults can be entertained by the subtle touches and attention to detail. So Time Bandits doesn’t bring everything down to the level of small children, but it makes sure that audiences across the board will be entertained, which is no small feat. I think most kids will be pleased that the movie can be so much fun, without dumbing down the humor and situations. Simply put, one of the rare movies that entertains audiences of all ages.
Video: How does it look?
Time Bandits is presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen. Sadly, this transfer fails to do justice to this great movie, as the visuals look weak and unimpressive. The print looks to have been put through the wringer, with a lot of debris and even softness, which really lessens the visual impact. The overall detail is passable, but some scenes do look quite soft, which is a let down. On the plus side, colors look good, but that is where the praise pretty much ends. This movie deserves a much better treatment than this, fans are sure to be disappointed.
Audio: How does it sound?
A DTS HD 5.1 option is included and sounds quite good. The overall presence is more than solid, with more depth than I had anticipated. This isn’t going to blow the roof off of course, but it sounds great and is immersive at times. The music is well handled too, so the score really resonates here. No problems whatsoever with dialogue either, all the vocals shine through clean and clear at all times. This disc also includes a Dolby Digital 5.1 option and a French language track.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes an interview with Terry Gilliam, as well as the film’s theatrical trailer.
