Time Bandits goes all Goodfellas on us (Via: avclub.com)
The Latest "Time Bandits" Episode Brings a Gangster Twist
The latest episode of "Time Bandits" offers fans plenty of voiceover as Kevin delves into the quirky dynamics of the Time Bandits gang. He humorously admits that they're neither the toughest nor the most coordinated yet manages to keep the gang spirit alive. This sets the tone for a Goodfellas-style homage, despite the era mismatch, as the tale primarily unfolds in 1929 during Prohibition.
Saffron's Survival and New Ally
Saffron takes center stage as she inadvertently escapes from Fianna and roams through 1200 C.E. Japan. She encounters the formidable Tomoe Gozen, who becomes her ally. The climax reaches an intense point when Fianna catches up but erroneously identifies Saffron as her target. Saffron can temporarily relax as Fianna's interest pivots to Kevin.
Time-Bending Adventures in Prohibition Era NYC
Meanwhile, the crew is busy transporting between an eighth-century monastery and a Prohibition-era NYC warehouse. A comedic misunderstanding with trench-coated men offers them a bag of money in exchange for contraband. Luckily, the bandits improvise with monastery mead, diving deep into the bootlegger lifestyle. They even immerse in NYC's vibrant speakeasy culture, flaunting new clothes and living it up.
Gang Rivalries and Comedic Misunderstandings
As the bandits adapt, they face Madame Queenie's gang and comically misinterpret threats like "sleep with the fishes." The episode cleverly nods to autistic culture through its literal interpretations, resonating with fans of characters like Drax from Guardians of the Galaxy.
Inclusive Casting Highlights
There's a commitment to inclusion with two agents, played by little people, sent by the Supreme Being to scan a crime scene. Their substantial roles hint at the characters' future importance.
Final Revelations and Foreshadowing
The episode culminates with the Supreme Being unveiling his plan for "Earth 2" due to his dissatisfaction with the current state of humanity. The convoluted yet fascinating narrative structure ensures that viewers, especially families, stay engaged as the series unfolds new tangents.
Stray Observations
Taika Waititi's portrayal of God as a playful figure who cherishes dinosaurs adds a delightful twist.
Akilah Green shines as the episode writer, transitioning from a legal career to an Emmy-nominated screenwriter.
For an in-depth look at this episode, read the original article.
Time Bandits: A Reverent Homage Wrapped in Modern Storytelling
The latest episode of Time Bandits explores a fusion of genres and eras, layering clumsy heists, Prohibition-era antics, and heartfelt character development. The creators pay homage to classics while pushing the narrative into fresh, ambitious territories.
Resonating with Classics
Kevin's voiceover dialogue with his coal-parents is reminiscent of Goodfellas. The nod to Scorsese's masterpiece serves not only as a respectful homage but adds a layer of endearing self-awareness to the series. The episode dances between different historical periods—medieval England, Prohibition-era NYC, and 1200 C.E. Japan—which gives a unique blend of cultural and historical references.
Saffron's Adventure in Feudal Japan
Saffron's journey takes her to Japan, where she encounters Tomoe Gozen, a fierce samurai. This interaction adds richness to the episode, blending historical authenticity with the fantastical spirit of the show. The action sequences involving Tomoe's archery skills are adrenaline-pumping—a must-watch! Moreover, Saffron's constant search for her parents keeps the emotional core intact.
The Heist and Comedy Duo
The Prohibition-era heist highlights the show's comedic elements. Penelope's gang's misunderstanding of gangster jargon is as amusing as it is insightful. There's an unexpected yet relatable comedic parallel to a character like Drax from Guardians of the Galaxy. This layer of autistic-coded humor, whether intentional or not, presents a refreshing take in contemporary media.
Representation and Inclusivity
The inclusion of little people portraying Supreme Being's agents hints at greater strides towards inclusivity in media. Given the controversy around the show's casting choices, this is a welcome move. The actors convincingly portray their roles, establishing them as solid contributors to the unfolding mystery of the map and the "Great Reset."
Comic Relief and Emotional Depth
The show resonates largely because it knows how to balance: from comic sequences to deep emotional undertones. The scene where Penelope and Bugsy share leadership woes while attempting hilariously misguided facial impersonations hits the sweet spot between humor and storytelling.
Foreshadowing the Great Reset
Supreme Being's revelation of "Earth 2" underscores the larger narrative arc. His discontent with humanity aims to ground the fantasy elements in a commentary on real-world issues. This ambitious plot twist raises the stakes, making us ponder: What if Earth did need a reset?
The Waititi Touch
Taika Waititi’s portrayal of Supreme Being is an absolute treat. His blend of childlike wonder and divine authority gives the character an irresistible charm. His quirky insistence on dinosaurs being the perfect creation is inherently Waititi-esque.
In Conclusion
Time Bandits excels because it’s not afraid to mix the old with the new, the serious with the silly. From its historical escapades to its humorous nods, from inclusivity strides to larger existential questions, the show is a multi-layered tapestry that keeps viewers on their toes. With each episode, it promises more engaging and heartwarming adventures. Bring on the next chapter!
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