Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island has been adapted for the screen more times than almost any other story since its 1883 debut. Now, MGM+ is taking another crack at the classic with a six-episode series that adds some intriguing new twists to the familiar tale.
At its heart, this Treasure Island stays true to the original novel, focusing on the complicated bond between young Jim Hawkins and the cunning Long John Silver. But creator Robert Murphy has reimagined the origins of that relationship and given Jim's mother, Bess, a much more prominent role—a change that pays off handsomely. The result is a web of deception and shifting alliances that makes for gripping television, even if the season's second half struggles to maintain the momentum of its opening episodes.
A Familiar Story with Fresh Twists
Everyone knows the basic plot of Treasure Island: Jim Hawkins finds a map to Captain Flint's buried treasure and sets sail on a perilous voyage, encountering pirates and betrayal along the way. This adaptation keeps those broad strokes but adds a layer of intrigue reminiscent of Pirates of the Caribbean. Every major character wants Flint's treasure for their own reasons, and they're constantly maneuvering for the upper hand. Jim (Tom Sweet) is the only one who knows how to find the treasure—thanks to a photographic memory—and he's caught in the middle, unsure who to trust.
The most significant change is the expanded role of Bess Hawkins, played by the always-excellent Hayley Atwell. In previous adaptations, Jim's mother is a minor figure, but here she's a central player. Bess joins the voyage, and her presence not only enriches Jim's coming-of-age story but also gives him a formidable ally—and sometimes a source of unease—as she proves just as cunning as the men around her.
Jim starts out firmly on his mother's side, but as he witnesses her ruthless side, he begins to waver, sometimes drawn toward the seemingly respectable merchant Aaron Graham (Jack Huston) and other times toward the dangerous cook, Long John Silver (David Oyelowo). Unlike in the book, Jim and Bess already know Silver's true nature before they set sail, having witnessed his involvement in the fate of Billy Bones (Tomer Capone). This prior knowledge sets the stage for a tense dynamic among the trio, further complicated by Graham's mysterious generosity.
Atwell and Oyelowo Steal the Show
The cast is uniformly strong, but it's Atwell and Oyelowo who truly shine. Atwell brings her trademark intelligence and charisma to Bess, elevating every scene she's in. But it's Oyelowo who delivers the most memorable performance, playing against type as the charming yet terrifying Long John Silver. He's menacing and treacherous, yet utterly magnetic—exactly as Silver should be.
While the series may not have the budget of a big-screen blockbuster, the production team makes the most of what they have. The ship's cramped quarters are used to great effect, and the sense of adventure is palpable. The first three or four episodes are a thrilling ride, but as the story approaches its climax, things start to unravel.
A Stumble on Skeleton Island
Once the crew reaches Skeleton Island, the momentum grinds to a halt. The pacing slows dramatically, and the plot meanders as the characters follow the map in Jim's head. Some decisions feel baffling, seemingly made just to differentiate this adaptation from others, but they add little to the story. Several plot threads are introduced and then abandoned, leaving viewers frustrated.
It's possible the creators are setting up a second season, and the final scenes do offer some hope. The ending is satisfying in its own right, providing closure for Flint's treasure while leaving the door open for more adventures. If a second season does materialize, it would be a welcome opportunity to explore some of the threads that were left dangling.
Despite its flaws, Treasure Island is worth watching for the performances alone. Atwell and Oyelowo are a dynamic duo, and their chemistry anchors the series. For fans of the novel or of high-seas adventure, this is a worthy addition to the canon, even if it doesn't quite stick the landing.
Treasure Island premieres October 11 on MGM+. For more on the series, check out our earlier trailer coverage.
