Time Bandits Map Prop Replica

I have loved Time Bandits since I first saw it nearly 30 years ago. Being a Monty Python fanatic, I was excited to see a Terry Gilliam film – particularly starring Sean Connery, John Cleese and Michael Palin. Another star of the film for me was the art direction. I really admire the look of this film. It has some truly nightmarish images which hint at things to come from Mr. Gilliam with Brazil and Twelve Monkeys. That detail extended down to the props. One prop in particular has always sparked my interest.

I have always wanted a copy of the map from Time Bandits. Several years ago I decided to create my own replica of this exquisite prop.

There were at least two different versions of this map created for the film. The map used during filming and handled by the actors exhibits different detailing and color than the map seen during the credits sequences. This map replicates the prop used during filming. My personal theory on the different props goes like this. They created the map for filming and it took quite a beating. They may have had multiple versions there too as that’s generally the practice in case a prop is damaged or lost. After filming wrapped, they needed a map for the credits sequence. They rolled out the film map and realized it was not in the best shape. So, at that point they created a new map. It’s a very close match but not exact. Another big giveaway that they are different props is that the map seen during the film only has the clock panels on the left side. However, the map seen during the credits has clock panels on both sides.

This replica map DOES have clock panels on both sides for those who like symmetry. The right side panel can be cut off for those wanting to match the filming prop. I have studied the film and every printed reference source I could find to create this replica and it is very accurate to the screen-used map. It has been created completely in Photoshop with the goal to create a replica that looks hand-drawn. The file is enormous containing 188 layers with a file size of 1.72 GB.

These maps measure 40 inches x 24.5 inches and are printed on fine art canvas from a top-of-the-line Epson giclee printer. This print process reproduces the finest detail and is archival for decades under normal viewing conditions.