View Full Version : The Failure of Tales of the Gold Monkey: Let’s Rip Off Raiders of the Lost Ark


TMC
04-14-2026, 07:43 PM
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This episode looks at the short-lived 1982 adventure series Tales of the Gold Monkey, and the behind the scenes and making of it.

What started as a rejected idea built around classic 1930s adventure films suddenly got pushed forward after the success of Raiders of the Lost Ark, turning it into a network attempt to capture that same kind of energy for television.

With its South Seas setting, pulpy tone, and a mix of charm and production headaches, the show quickly built a following while dealing with high costs, creative clashes, and a schedule that kept slipping.

For anyone who remembers it, or just wants to revisit one of the more unusual and overlooked adventure series of the early 80s, this is a closer look at the show and the story behind it.

WARNING: This video contains traces of "proper bollocks," high-octane cynicism.

Viewer discretion is advised for those sensitive to "bloody rich" opinions or dry British-style grit.