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The film was released in 2004 (Image: Buena Vista Pictures Distribution)
For a feel-good film to watch with all the family, this 2004 movie is airing on ITV today and offers all the laughs you’d expect from a timeless action adventure story.
Taking viewers right back to the 1870s, this adventurous film is based on a beloved book from the same era and yet widely deviates from the original tale, using a range of juxtaposing ideas – which all add to the comedic elements.
Around the World in 80 Days is a renowned film, directed by Frank Coraci, in a remake of Jules Verne’s novel of the same name. It is adored by viewers for its brilliant and unexpected cast pairings and ‘comedic timing’ that blends a number of genres, fit for all ages.
At the heart of the film is martial arts master Jackie Chan alongside British acting legend and comedian Steve Coogan. Also starring in the film are Cécile de France and Jim Broadbent, with supporting roles from several familiar faces.
Based on the novel, Around the World in 80 Days tells the story of Phileas Fogg, an eccentric Victorian man who bets his fortune with his peers that he can circumnavigate the world in just 80 days.
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Jackie Chan plays a leading role (Image: Buena Vista Pictures Distribution)
As he sets out on this life-changing challenge, he is accompanied by his smart and helpful valet, Passepartout, as they both take on a wide range of obstacles.
They use a whole load of different transport modes, and they try to traverse entirely new territories and fight against the clock to make it back to London in time.
One fan of the film left a detailed review on Rotten Tomatoes; they wrote: “This movie is an underrated classic from the 2000s that deserves more appreciation. It has all the elements of a feel-good movie that leaves you smiling.
“Featuring the one and only Jackie Chan, this film is a perfect blend of action, humour, and charm that showcases Chan’s unique mix of martial arts and comedic timing. The dynamic between Jackie Chan’s Passepartout and Steve Coogan’s eccentric Phileas Fogg is nothing short of delightful.”
Another viewer shared: “I created an account just to give this movie the rating it deserves. As a family-friendly action comedy, it is literally perfect. My daughter and I will have to watch it again, as we laughed over so much. The three main characters were wonderful, and I found the friendship element delightful.”
Steve Coogan and Jackie Chan have hilarious on-screen chemistry (Image: Buena Vista Pictures Distribution)
Despite its fun-loving nature and star-studded cast, the adventure film did not prove to be the success that its creators hoped it would be. Instead, it was a bit of a box office bomb, making far less than it cost to create the film in the first place.
Many of its criticisms come from the fact that it is not true to the story as portrayed in the novel and often overexaggerates or elaborates situations for comedy purposes. Others would argue a story needs to be told differently on screen to allow for more visual elements to take hold.
Although, one review states: “Far better than the reviews might suggest. Around the World in 80 Days is a silly, entertaining adventure movie. If you watch it, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.”
Also siding with the filmmakers on this one, a fan simply wrote: “It knows what it is and it never strays – a fun, light-hearted trip with some JC Kung-Fu to spice things up.”
Families can get together to watch Around The World in 80 Days today, Monday, May 4, at 2:00pm on ITV1. Alternatively, the film is available to stream whenever you like on Netflix.
