Midgets. Robin Hood. Time traveling. Agamemnon. The Titanic. British folk.

Any of these alone would make for an interesting cinematic endeavor. It might even win Best Picture (see 1997). Combine all these elements with a dash of Monty Python humor and you have Terry Gilliam's 1981 masterpiece of children's fantasy, "Time Bandits."

"Time Bandits" tells the story of Kevin, a young boy with a wild imagination and parents who are more concerned with television and kitchen appliances than their only child. One bloody British night, Kevin lies is bed only to be violently awoken by a knight in shining armor mounted to a "Lord of the Rings"-esque stallion. The next day Kevin finds a small army of midgets (little people, dwarves) perusing his personal space. From this point on, Kevin inadvertently joins the band of time traveling thieves from ancient times to present-day England.

"Time Bandits" includes many scenes worth cataloging, none of which are more justified than the ending to the 116-minute long film. The conclusion is so absurd it has solidified itself as possibly the greatest film ending of all time. Some will scratch their heads, others will laugh in torrential glee.

One of the most endearing characteristics of the film is the talented cast. Sean Connery is superb as Agamemnon and even better as a fireman. That's right, Sean Connery as a fireman. Ian Holm ("Alien," "Brazil") is a memorable Napoleon who rambles on when intoxicated about history's great short leaders. "Monty Python" members John Cleese and Michael Palin give rousing supporting roles but none of the acting tops that of David Warner ("Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze") as the Evil Genius. Warner's rendition of the technology-obsessed devil is so over the top it blends flawlessly with the bizarre set designs.

Terry Gilliam started his career in the sketch comedy troupe Monty Python as an animator. His first directorial effort was 1975's "Monty Python and the Quest for the Holy Grail." Some of his more acclaimed efforts include "Brazil," "The Fisher King" and "12 Monkeys." Known for his inventive camerawork and satirical writing, Gilliam has become Hollywood's dark child. He was once quoted as saying, "'One Of Hollywood's Greatest Visionaries?' I'm Not Even A Hollywood director!"

The "quiet Beatle" himself George Harrison provides his song "Dream Away" from his 1982 album "Gone Troppo" for the end credits. Not only does he provide a portion of the soundtrack, but Harrison is also one of the executive producers. Not surprising considering some of the scenes look as though they were taken from "Magical Mystery Tour."

Thank the Supreme Being for the boys at The Criterion Collection. "Time Bandits" is available in an impressive DVD release, but be wary. There are two versions of the film available on DVD, one produced by Anchor Bay and the other by Criterion. Depending on how cheap you are, the Criterion version is the only way to go. It includes a commentary track with director Terry Gilliam, as well as actors John Cleese, David Warner, Michael Palin and Craig Warnock. Enthusiasts will also enjoy a brief video montage and the theatrical trailer. If you're the type of individual who drives to Taco Bell at midnight to score some free stale pizza, perhaps the bare bones Anchor Bay edition with it's $20 price tag is more suitable than its $40 Criterion cousin.

"Time Bandits" is an imaginative film for both children and the young at heart. The twisted, non-sensical "Monty Python" humor will keep older viewers entertained while dazzling kids with the adventures of its child protagonist. Relatively unknown to most cinema aficionados, "Time Bandits" is the premiere midget movie of the last 25 years.