Iain Morris: From ‘The Inbetweeners’ to ‘Time Bandits’ and beyond

A journey through comedy and fantasy

To many in the UK, Iain Morris is synonymous with the hilariously crude sitcom “The Inbetweeners”. This show, which aired from 2008 to 2010, followed a group of awkward teenage boys and was a massive hit, spawning two successful films. However, Morris’s creative journey didn’t stop there. He has since been involved in a variety of projects, including “White Gold”, “First Team”, “What We Do in the Shadows”, and the upcoming “My Oxford Year” on Netflix.

Reimagining a cult classic

For the past few years, Morris has been working on “Time Bandits”, a reimagining of Terry Gilliam’s 1981 fantasy comedy. The original film, featuring a star-studded cast including Sean Connery and John Cleese, was a major success. The new series, co-written by Morris, Taika Waititi, and Jemaine Clement, is set to premiere on Apple TV+ and stars Lisa Kudrow.

A deeper dive into history

Morris explains that the new series allows for a more in-depth exploration of historical events and characters. Unlike the original film, which focused on a few key figures like Napoleon and Agamemnon, the series ventures into various eras, including 1920s Harlem and the time of the Neanderthals. This broader scope offers a richer narrative and more opportunities for character development.

Diversity and representation

One significant change in the new series is its diverse cast. While the original film featured a band of dwarves, the new series includes actors of various heights and backgrounds. Morris emphasizes that this decision was made to reflect modern sensibilities and to create a more inclusive story.

Behind the scenes

The creative process

Morris shares that his involvement in “Time Bandits” began when Waititi and Clement approached him to write the pilot script. His long-standing friendship with them and his passion for history made him a perfect fit for the project. Despite rumors, Terry Gilliam was not involved in the production, although HandMade Films did provide feedback.

Addressing controversies

Morris also addresses the allegations made by Charlyne Yi, who claimed they were physically assaulted by a fellow actor on set. He assures that the situation was handled with the utmost seriousness, involving a thorough investigation by Paramount’s HR department. Despite the incident, Yi’s performance remains in the final series.

The future of Fudge Park

Morris’s production company, Fudge Park, co-founded with Damon Beesley, continues to thrive. Their latest project, “Daddy Issues”, is set to premiere on the BBC and features David Morrissey and Aimee Lou Wood. Morris and Beesley are also working on several new scripts and hope to produce more British comedy films.

A new direction with ‘My Oxford Year’

Morris is currently in pre-production for “My Oxford Year”, a Netflix rom-com that marks a shift from his usual comedic style. This project challenges him to explore more dramatic elements, showcasing his versatility as a director.

The enduring appeal of ‘The Inbetweeners’

When asked about the possibility of a reboot or continuation of “The Inbetweeners”, Morris humorously suggests that he would be open to someone else taking on the project. The idea of revisiting the beloved characters as they approach middle age remains a tantalizing prospect for fans.

Final thoughts

Iain Morris’s career is a testament to his versatility and creativity. From the irreverent humor of “The Inbetweeners” to the imaginative world of “Time Bandits”, he continues to push boundaries and explore new genres. As he embarks on his latest projects, fans can look forward to more innovative and entertaining content from this talented creator.

For more information and to watch trailers, visit the following links:

Stay tuned for more updates on Iain Morris’s exciting ventures!