PBS’ beloved travel series, “Around the World in 80 Days,” has captured the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide for decades. With its fascinating exploration of different cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and awe-inspiring adventures, this iconic show has become a symbol of wanderlust and discovery. But have you ever wondered just how many episodes it took to complete this grand expedition?
The answer to that question is not as straightforward as one might think. The original 1989 adaptation of “Around the World in 80 Days” was a 7-part miniseries, each episode spanning approximately one hour in length. This adaptation followed the captivating journey of the intrepid Phileas Fogg, who wagered he could traverse the globe in just 80 days.
Each episode transported viewers to breathtaking locations across the globe. From bustling cities like London and Paris to exotic destinations such as Istanbul, Cairo, and the mystical jungles of India, audiences were treated to a visual feast of cultures and landscapes. The series showcased the remarkable diversity found around the world, reminding us of the beauty and interconnectedness of our global community.
Twenty years later, in 2009, PBS brought “Around the World in 80 Days” back to our screens in a new and revamped adaptation. This time, the journey was condensed into a breathtaking three-part series. Each episode was a delightful mixture of travelogue, history lesson, and adventure. Viewers were once again captivated by the beauty of our planet and the various challenges faced by Fogg and his loyal companion, Passepartout.
The modern adaptation aimed to retain the spirit of the original while injecting a fresh, contemporary feel into the series. It seamlessly blended traditional storytelling with cutting-edge cinematography and breathtaking visuals. The swift pace and dynamic editing kept audiences engaged, ensuring an unforgettable viewing experience.
While the original miniseries and its modern counterpart remain the most celebrated adaptations of Jules Verne’s classic novel, “Around the World in 80 Days” has also been reimagined in various other forms. These adaptations, however, took different approaches in terms of episode count and duration.
For example, in some regions, the series was condensed into a single feature-length film. This condensed version retained the essence of the story but naturally omitted certain subplots and details. While it provided a quick and convenient way to experience the adventure, some fans missed the depth and richness of the longer adaptations.
Conversely, other regions split the series into a larger number of shorter episodes, allowing for a more serialized approach. These adaptations allowed viewers to savor the journey, diving deeper into the characters’ backstories and the cultural tapestries they encountered along the way. Each episode served as a gateway to a new destination, effortlessly transporting audiences from one corner of the world to another.
In the end, the number of episodes in “Around the World in 80 Days” can vary depending on the specific adaptation and region. While the original 1989 series spanned 7 episodes, the 2009 adaptation condensed the journey into three parts. Other adaptations took a more compact or elongated approach, catering to different audiences’ preferences.
No matter the number of episodes, “Around the World in 80 Days” remains a timeless PBS series that continues to inspire and ignite our thirst for exploration. Whether experienced in a multi-part series, a condensed feature film, or through bite-sized episodes, this remarkable journey serves as a reminder of the limitless wonders our world has to offer. So, sit back, relax, and let the adventures begin as we journey “Around the World in 80 Days!”