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Parents' Guide to

The Time Traveler’s Wife

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 16+

Confusing romance adaptation has violence, sex, nudity.

TV HBO Drama 2022
The Time Traveler's Wife series poster.

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What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

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What's the Story?

Based on Audrey Niffenegger's 2003 book of the same name, and executive produced by Doctor Who's Steven Moffat, THE TIME TRAVELER'S WIFE follows the complicated romance between Clare Abshire (Rose Leslie) and time traveler Henry DeTamble (Theo James). Henry is a librarian who for genetic reasons vanishes uncontrollably to some point in his past or future, but eventually returns to the present day. When 6-year-old Clare (played by Everleigh McDonell) meets Henry, he is 36, and already knows what the future will hold for the both of them. The young Clare says nothing about him to anyone, but as she grows up she falls in love with him she, comfortable with the idea that they will end up together. But she must contend with the fact that Henry's timeline is non-linear, creating unique challenges, and which require Clare, and sometimes his older self, to fill in the blanks about their relationship and keep secrets about what the future holds. It's not easy, but they love each other too much to give up.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
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Kids say (1 ):

Steven Moffat's overcomplicated adaptation of the popular romantic fantasy novel features enough awkward writing to make the series simultaneously cheesy and confusing. Using flashbacks and other devices, it attempts to tell the story in a way that highlights the couple's love for each other while navigating Henry's fantastical existence. However, those who read Audrey Niffenegger's book may find themselves frustrated by the way key details, including the time traveling rules, are glossed over, especially since this helps the complex story remain cohesive. This also makes it potentially challenging for those who haven't read it to fully grasp what is happening and why. Adding to this are corny lines designed to highlight the passion between the two lovers, making the exchanges seem silly and flat. Meanwhile, subplots associated with sexual violence are also augmented in hopes of making the series more dramatic for viewers. But it is an interesting love story, and if you like romance, you may find the overall series entertaining. Nontehelsss, if you're looking for a well-produced adaptation of The Time Traveler's Wife, chances are you'll be left disappointed and potentially disoriented.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the challenges that come with adapting a novel for television. How is this different from adapting a book for the movies? What are things that you can accomplish in a book but not on TV, and vice versa?

  • How different is Steven Moffat's version of The Time Traveler's Wife from the novel? The 2009 movie? Why were these changes made? Would you have told the story differently?

TV Details

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