Recently the children and I went to a special screen of The Pirates to celebrate the launch of The Pirates now coming out on DVD. It was a fun filled screening with Pirate Party Food and a session on animation making. We then made our own little Dodo Animation at home. But on to the Movie Review of The Pirates In An Adventure with Scientists!
Film Info:
- PG
- Animation, Comedy
- 88 minutes
- Cast: Hugh Grant, David Tennant, Imelda Staunton, Martin Freeman, Jeremy Piven
The Pirates is a classic (plasticine) animation by Aardman Animations (known for films such starring Wallace & Gromit, Chicken Run and also behind non plasticine animation Flushed Away). Ever since Wallace & Gromit was created, Aardman Animations can do “no wrong” in my eyes. Usually, they have interesting and fun characters, punchy lines that make you *chuckle* (but the kids don’t necessarily “get”) and a quirky storyline.
The Pirates is no different. And my kids (2.5years and 4.5 years)currently are both into pirates. They loved EVERY second of the film. The stories story line is all about “The Pirate” who wants to win “Pirate of the year”. He has been trying for a number of years and always fails majestically. This year he wants it to be different. So when a scientist (no other than Charles Darwin), discovers that The Pirates pet is a Dodo (rather than just a fat Parrot), The Pirate is tempted by untold riches. The story enfolds all around the Dodo and what fate awaits the Dodo, when he purchased by the Queen, who we discover likes to EAT rare aniamls. Oh no. Shock horror. What will happen?! The Pirate soon comes to his senses and goes on a rescue mission.
The kids just enjoyed the films.
I liked the story line (differen), the animation (brilliant) and the jokes. I also liked the fact that there was no “unnecessary” scary bits that are often found in other animations these days (to appeal to adult audience). At no point did I worry about my kids being scared. Of course it did get exciting and of course they did look a bit concerned, but all within reason, without in any way making the film less enjoyable. A big thumbs up for getting that right.
Watch the Trailer:
Overall Rating
Would my husband have enjoyed it? You know what, YES, I think he would.. and he doesn’t like many films I watch!
Did my kids enjoy it? Very much.
Likeability of characters – 10/ 10 (we loved them all)
General story line – 10/10 (quirky, fun, different, entertaining)
The Ending – 9/10 (of course predictable, but not in an annoying way)
Disclaimer: though we were invited to The Pirate screening, I was under not obligation to write about the film. This website didn’t even exist then! My thoughts are 100% my own.