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Nostalgia Fails: Time Bandits Canceled After Just One Season

Sep 17, 2024 2:37 PM

Apple TV+ has canceled its adaptation of Time Bandits after just one season, failing to achieve the necessary viewership and critical acclaim required for renewal. The show's average critic score on Metacritic stands at 66, while user ratings are notably lower at only 4.6 out of 10. Despite a certain level of nostalgia tied to the original 1981 film directed by Terry Gilliam, the series struggled to gain traction and did not feature in Nielsen's top 10 streaming rankings. While it reportedly performed better in the UK, the series faced considerable backlash regarding its casting choices, particularly from actors with dwarfism. Additionally, serious allegations have surfaced against the production concerning on-set incidents.

Why was Time Bandits canceled after only one season?

Time Bandits was canceled primarily due to low viewer ratings and negative audience reception. The show failed to make a significant impact in streaming rankings and faced criticism over its casting decisions, impacting its popularity and chances for renewal.

Time Bandits is based on the cult classic film of the same name, which follows a young boy who discovers that time travel is possible through a group of dwarfs. Directed by Terry Gilliam, the original film has achieved a notable status in fantasy cinema. The new adaptation aimed to bring a fresh take on this beloved story but ultimately could not connect with today's audiences, showcasing the challenge of adapting iconic properties to modern times.



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Jordan Keats

Jordan Keats is a former professional gamer turned journalist, whose competitive background gives them a unique perspective on esports and multiplayer games. Jordan's expertise in strategy and game mechanics is unmatched, offering readers a deeper understing.

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Stimpy Stimpy commented on: 2024-09-17 15:00:05
It's a bummer to see Time Bandits get the axe—it's a tough landscape for adaptations, especially with such a beloved classic at its roots. It just goes to show that nostalgia alone isn't enough; if the execution doesn't resonate with audiences, it can spell disaster for even the most promising projects.
Miss Peachy Miss Peachy commented on: 2024-09-17 14:48:03
It’s a bummer to see Time Bandits get the axe, especially since it had that nostalgic charm from the original film. Sometimes, even the most beloved classics just can’t find their footing in today’s streaming landscape, and this seems to be one of those cases.
Sephiroth Sephiroth commented on: 2024-09-17 14:42:02
It's always a bummer to see a show with potential get cut, especially when it has such a nostalgic legacy like Time Bandits. It really highlights the tricky line between honoring original content and resonating with contemporary audiences—sometimes the magic just doesn’t translate.
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