Directors: Peter Lord and Jeff Newitt
Cast: Hugh Grant, Martin Freeman, David Tennant, Imelda Staunton, Brendan Gleeson, Jeremy Piven, Lenny Henry, Salma Hayek
Rating: (G)
4 stars (out of 5)
The story opens in 1837 with Queen Victoria (Imelda Staunton) ruling the waves and not being very fond of pirates.
Normally that is of no interest to Pirate Captain (Hugh Grant). She is in London and his base of operation is the West Indies, but a complicated chain of events involving The Pirate of the Year competition, Charles Darwin (David Tennant) and a big-boned parrot called Polly lead him directly to London, where he makes the Queen's acquaintance.
This is a very different Victoria with plenty of surprises under her crinoline.
Fortunately, Pirate Captain also has plenty of surprises stuffed within his luxuriant beard, so it is almost an equal fight.
This all sounds rather jolly and, because it is an Aardman movie, every scene is stuffed with amusing bits and bobs, but for the longest time you are more impressed with how clever the film is instead of just enjoying it.
It is one of those rare films you have to see twice. The first time to get the vibe and the second to get the jokes.
Best thing: The disrespect shown to actual historical figures Queen Victoria and Charles Darwin is rather invigorating.
Worst thing: It fails to fully ignite until the final sequence, which is a bit long to leave your powder dry.
See it without: Your kids. Take your parents instead.
- By Christine Powley
