Who Stars In 'Around The World In 80 Days: Companion To The PBS Series'?

I recently watched 'Around the World in 80 Days: Companion to the PBS Series' on the PBS website itself. They keep a rotating selection of their shows available for free streaming, though you might need to check if it's currently in their catalog. The quality is excellent, and you get the full documentary experience without any cuts. Amazon Prime Video also has it available for rent or purchase if you prefer a permanent copy. Some local libraries have partnerships with platforms like Kanopy or Hoopla where you can stream PBS content for free with a library card. It's worth checking those out if you want legal and free access.

I remember coming across 'Around the World in 80 Days: Companion to the PBS Series' while browsing through classic TV companions. This gem was released in 1989, tying in perfectly with the PBS series that brought Jules Verne's adventure to life. The book serves as a detailed behind-the-scenes look, packed with production notes, route maps, and historical context about the journey. It's a must-read for fans of the series or anyone obsessed with 19th-century exploration narratives. The timing of its release was strategic, capitalizing on the show's popularity while offering deeper insights into Phileas Fogg's world.

I can say 'Around the World in 80 Days: Companion to the PBS Series' does a solid job bridging the gap between Jules Verne's classic and the modern adaptation. The companion book nails the historical context, especially how travel methods have evolved since the 1870s. It points out clever details like how Phileas Fogg's route would be impossible today due to geopolitical changes, while acknowledging where the series took creative liberties for dramatic effect. The maps and timeline comparisons are particularly accurate, showing side-by-side how the original journey stacks up against modern logistics. Where it shines is explaining production choices - why certain locations stood in for others, or how they recreated period-accurate transportation. It doesn't claim to be a scholarly work, but for fans wanting deeper insight, it hits the mark.

I recently compared 'Around the World in 80 Days: Companion to the PBS Series' to Jules Verne's original novel, and they share the core adventure but differ in execution. The companion book expands on historical context and production insights from the PBS series, which modernizes some elements. While Phileas Fogg's journey remains intact, the companion delves deeper into cultural nuances and filming locations, offering behind-the-scenes trivia. Verne's focus was the race against time; the companion emphasizes the global tapestry behind the adaptation. It's faithful in spirit but richer in detail, blending 19th-century charm with 21st-century perspectives. For purists, the novel's tighter narrative might appeal more, but the companion excels as a visual and educational supplement.

The 1956 film 'Around the World in 80 Days' is a classic adventure with an all-star cast that feels like a time capsule of Hollywood's golden age. David Niven plays the impeccably proper Phileas Fogg, and his dry wit makes the character unforgettable. Cantinflas, the Mexican comedy legend, steals scenes as Passepartout—his physical humor and charm are pure magic. The movie also has these wild celebrity cameos: Frank Sinatra as a piano player, Marlene Dietrich as a saloon queen, and even Buster Keaton pops up! It’s like a who’s who of mid-century fame. What’s wild is how the film mirrors Fogg’s journey by globe-trotting through genres—romance, comedy, action—all glued together by that lush Technicolor cinematography. Shirley MacLaine’s Princess Aouda feels a bit dated now, but her chemistry with Niven adds warmth. The real star might be the sheer audacity of the production: thousands of extras, real elephants, and those gorgeous location shoots. Watching it today feels like digging into a lavish, slightly chaotic scrapbook of 1950s Hollywood excess.

not a show. It serves as a companion piece to the PBS television series, offering deeper dives into the historical context, production details, and cultural themes explored in the episodes. The book is packed with behind-the-scenes photos, maps of Phileas Fogg’s journey, and essays that enrich the viewing experience. If you loved the series, this companion book adds layers of understanding you won’t get from the screen alone. It’s perfect for fans who want to geek out about Victorian travel or the challenges of adapting Jules Verne’s classic.

The 1956 adaptation of 'Around the World in Eighty Days' is a classic with a star-studded cast that feels like a who's who of Golden Age Hollywood. David Niven plays the impeccably precise Phileas Fogg, bringing that quintessential British charm to the role. Cantinflas, the legendary Mexican comedian, steals scenes as Fogg's loyal valet Passepartout—his physical humor and warmth are unforgettable. Shirley MacLaine shines as Princess Aouda, adding both grace and subtle wit. The film's cameos are insane: Frank Sinatra, Buster Keaton, and even Marlene Dietrich pop up! It's like a time capsule of 1950s star power, and the chemistry between Niven and Cantinflas alone makes it worth watching. What's wild is how the film mirrors Fogg's journey by gathering talent from across the globe. The director, Michael Anderson, packed every frame with personality, whether it's Robert Newton's over-the-top Inspector Fix or Charles Boyer's brief but memorable turn. The movie won five Oscars, including Best Picture, and you can see why—it's a lavish, joyful celebration of storytelling and star power. Even decades later, that cast list still feels magical.

The 2004 movie '80 Days Around the World' had such a fun, star-studded cast! Jackie Chan totally stole the show as Passepartout—his comedic timing and action chops were perfect for the role. Steve Coogan played the uptight Phileas Fogg, and their chemistry was hilarious. Then you had quirky cameos like Arnold Schwarzenegger as a wacky prince, and Kathy Bates as Queen Victoria, which felt like inside jokes for the audience. Even Jim Broadbent popped up as a scheming inventor. It’s one of those films where half the fun is spotting familiar faces in ridiculous roles. Not Oscar material, but a great popcorn flick with A-list talent having a blast. What’s wild is how the film mashed up adventure and comedy while barely resembling Jules Verne’s original novel. The cast seemed to embrace the chaos—Cécile de France brought charm as Monique, and Ewen Bremner’s Inspector Fix was delightfully over-the-top. The whole thing felt like a globe-trotting party where the actors were clearly enjoying themselves. If you dig ensemble films where celebs play against type, this is a hidden gem. Still quote Schwarzenegger’s “I’m a prince!” line with friends to this day.

I was just rewatching '80 Days Around the World' the other day and remembering how much I adore its whimsical charm! If you're looking for it, your best bet is checking streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV—I’ve seen it pop up there fairly often. It’s one of those adaptations that really captures the adventurous spirit of Jules Verne’s original novel, with a fun mix of steampunk aesthetics and globe-trotting excitement. I love how it balances humor and heart, making it perfect for both casual viewers and hardcore fans of classic literature. If you’re into physical media, you might also find DVD or Blu-ray versions floating around on eBay or specialty stores. Sometimes local libraries carry it too, which is a great way to watch for free. And hey, if you enjoy this, you might want to explore other adaptations like the 1956 film with David Niven—it’s a totally different vibe but equally entertaining. The 2004 miniseries with Pierce Brosnan is another hidden gem if you can track it down!

The story of '80 Days Around the World' is a wild ride of adventure and ingenuity, and I love how it blends classic literature with modern twists. Based loosely on Jules Verne's 'Around the World in Eighty Days,' it follows the wealthy and eccentric Phileas Fogg as he bets his fortune that he can circumnavigate the globe in just 80 days. With his loyal valet Passepartout, they tackle steamships, trains, and even elephants—all while being chased by Detective Fix, who’s convinced Fogg is a bank robber. The stakes feel real, and the pacing is relentless, making every delay or obstacle a nail-biter. What really hooks me, though, is the sheer variety of cultures and landscapes they encounter. From the crowded streets of Hong Kong to the vast American plains, the world feels alive and unpredictable. The story’s charm lies in its mix of humor, danger, and the unshakable bond between Fogg and Passepartout. By the end, you’re left cheering for them, even though you know how it’ll turn out—it’s the journey that matters.