‘Legends of the Hidden Temple’ coming back to Nickelodeon … as a TV movie?

We know that Nickelodeon is very much invested in nostalgia right now, ordering a new “Hey Arnold!” TV movie also developing new ways to use existing properties.

Now, we’re hearing that the network is strongly considering bringing back of all things a reboot of the classic game show “Legends of the Hidden Temple” … but as a TV movie? That’s what Variety is reporting right now. Actress Isabela Moner has been cast as one of the leads, one of three siblings who must travel through the temple and try to stay alive. Apparently, there will be some elements of the original show, including the temple guards and Olmec the famous stone head who sent the contestants on their quest so many years ago.

We’re not going to complain at all about this concept coming back, given that it was one of our favorite game shows ever as a child. Here’s what we are wondering: Why not just create a more grown-up, ambitious version of the show for adults and put it on CBS in the summer? We feel like it has the Indiana Jones sort of flair that would appeal to adults, and it is people over 18 who would probably be the ones really watching the show at this point. Most kids under the age of 13 likely have no clue what “Legends of the Hidden Temple” probably is.

Maybe we’ll give the TV movie the benefit of the doubt … even if we still feel like it’s the wrong programming movie if Nick is really trying to make this franchise relevant again. Doing something more similar to the original a la “Hey Arnold!” seems like much more of a step in the right direction.

What do you think: Is a “Legends of the Hidden Temple” TV movie a good idea? Share in the comments, and head over here to get some other TV news on everything we cover, sent right over to you via our CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: Nick.)