Watch Timm Thaler
- 1979
- 1 Season
Timm Thaler is a German television show produced by TV-60 Filmproduktion GmbH, based on the classic children's novel by James Krüss. It is a live-action fantasy adventure series that follows the story of Timm Thaler, a young boy who has an extraordinary ability to laugh contagiously.
The show is set in the 1920s in Germany and chronicles Timm's journey from being an impoverished orphan to a wealthy but unhappy young man. The story begins with Timm's encounter with the mysterious and sinister Baron Lefuet, who offers to buy Timm's infectious laughter in exchange for the ability to always win every bet he makes. Greedy and foolish, Timm accepts the offer and hands over his laughter to the Baron, only to realize the price of his foolishness later on. He becomes deeply unhappy and craves to have his laughter back.
With the help of his friends, Kreschimir the magician, Ida his friend from the orphanage and the street urchin Willi, Timm goes on an adventure to regain his laughter, his true identity, and to defeat the evil Baron Lefuet. The story is emotionally charged, funny and wholesome, making it an enjoyable watch for the whole family.
The show is visually stunning and brings the story of Timm Thaler to life in an inventive and imaginative way. The sets have a vintage feel that gives the show a timelessness that transcends the show's setting. The show's soundtrack is also exceptional, featuring music that sets the tone for the story's emotional and dramatic moments.
The central character Timm is played by the talented Arved Friese, who effortlessly spans the emotional spectrum, bringing a level of depth and authenticity to the role. His portrayal of Timm's inner turmoil and transformation is a highlight of the show. Friese captures the character's innocence, humor, sensitivity, and bravery, that make Timm Thaler a lovable character to root for.
The supporting cast of Timm Thaler is also exceptional, especially Justus von Dohnányi as the villainous Baron Lefuet. With his chilling laugh and menacing presence, von Dohnányi perfectly embodies the sinister and manipulative nature of the character.
The themes of the show are relatable to all ages, from the struggles of growing up to facing one's fears and finding one's purpose. The story also addresses the theme of greed and its destructive effects on the individual and society. The show doesn't come across as preachy or overly moralistic, but rather, it is a well-crafted tale that incorporates these themes seamlessly into the story's narrative.
The story of Timm Thaler is not new, but this adaptation breathes new life into it. The show's creators have done an excellent job of staying true to the source material while making tweaks that make the story engaging to a modern audience. The pacing of the show is perfect, with each episode propelling the story forward and building up to the finale.
In conclusion, Timm Thaler is a captivating, heartwarming, and nostalgic show that is bound to delight both children and adults. It's a must-watch for fans of the book, but even if you are unfamiliar with the source material, this show is worth checking out. The show's production values, talented cast, and engaging storytelling all come together to make it an exceptional viewing experience.