Best Television-Inspired Movies:

Television shows often end too early or not early enough. Movies based on television shows can be retreads of old materials or new spins on old classic themes. When thinking about movies based on television shows, there are many more groan-inducing experiences and a lesser amount of engrossing experiments. There are a few movies that extend or breathe new air in their universe and here is a list of some of my favorites.

Firefly was a show that deserved better. The movie Serenity gave the universe a nice send-off that continued the universe and brought some closure to the story. Follow the crew of the spaceship Serenity as they deal with River’s past and the unknown Reavers who are wreaking havoc on different colonies. Experience this intriguing Sci-Fi/Western and get to know this creative universe. 

Here is a movie that I had zero expectations going in, but 21 Jump Street has some hilarious moments. Based on the Richard Greco and Johnny Depp television show of the late 1980s, two underachieving police officers are sent undercover to infiltrate a high school drug ring. Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum bring some good chemistry as they follow the predictable, but ultimately hilarious, predictability of the genre. Keep an eye out for some fun cameos.

Party time! My favorite Saturday Night Live inspired movie is Wayne’s World. Wayne and Garth broadcast their public access show from their basement until they are found by a talent agent who wants to make them stars. Life, love and headbanging madness ensue. This movie is ripe with unmatched cameos and entertaining characters. Game on!

The Fugitive is a truly classic film. The game of cat-and-mouse between Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones’ characters creates tension in all of the right spots. Moments such as the waterfall scene and finding out the identity of the one-armed man will remain as iconic film moments. Sit back and enjoy the ride.

Leave a comment below about a television-based movie that you love or despise.