Where to start
Arthur
2 versions · originally a film, 1981
Themes: Wealth and Privilege, Responsibility vs. Freedom, Unconventional Love, Redemption, Dysfunctional Family.
The name Arthur represents a central figure navigating the complex social expectations of family, friendship, and personal identity.
✦ Most fans start here
Arthur (1981)
The original movie
✦ Start hereArthur
Steve Gordon · Film · 1981
Arthur (1981) offers a classic adult romantic comedy centered on a wealthy, immature protagonist forced to choose between his massive inheritance and his desire for an unconventional, genuine love.
1996 series
Arthur
Marc Brown · Series · 1996
Arthur (1996) presents a charming, anthropomorphic perspective on childhood development, focusing on how a young aardvark and his community navigate the daily social lessons of growing up and building friendships.
Common questions
Is the 1996 Arthur TV series a direct adaptation of the 1981 movie?
No, the 1996 Arthur TV series is not an adaptation of the 1981 film. While they share a title, the television show is based on a separate series of children's books and features entirely different characters and storylines than the 1981 movie.
Should I watch the 1981 Arthur movie before starting the 1996 TV series?
There is no narrative reason to watch the 1981 Arthur movie before starting the 1996 TV series. They are unrelated projects that share a title but belong to different genres and target audiences, so you can watch them in any order.
How long is the original 1981 Arthur movie?
The original 1981 Arthur movie has a runtime of approximately 97 minutes. This feature film focuses on the life of a wealthy, eccentric man and is distinct from the 1996 television series of the same name.
Is Arthur from the 1981 movie the same character as in the 1996 TV show?
No, the Arthur in the 1981 movie is a completely different character from the protagonist of the 1996 TV series. The 1981 film is a live-action comedy, whereas the 1996 television series is an animated program based on a series of children's books.