Pirates

Beloved TV and radio personality Reggie Yates makes his directorial feature debut with this charming coming-of-age Brit romp that celebrates the power of music in a way that only a DJ could.

Pirates is a cheerful and undeniably likeable little flick that feels like the cinematic equivalent of its three lead characters – it’s cheeky and troublesome, but impossible to not be charmed by. Set on New Year’s Eve 1999, the film is playfully nostalgic in its portrayal of the era but its themes of friendship and growing up are timeless. And those looking for anything with particular narrative depth should look elsewhere, as Pirates is just a joyride through a chaotic night of clubs and banter. The short runtime of 79mins means that rapid pacing keeps the film’s energy up and never lags.

While the film isn’t particularly imaginative in its execution – the direction and editing often make the film feel like an extended episode of some BBC Three sitcom – there’s enough fun throughout to make you feel like you’re on one last “mad one with the lads” (or whatever the kids are saying these days). It’s a fun and frenetic ride that brings 90s rave culture back to life with likeable characters and an unsurprisingly killer soundtrack. What more could you want?

Undeniably charming and fun, Pirates is a playfully nostalgic romp.

PIRATES is available now on Digital, DVD, and Blu-ray from Picturehouse Entertainment