Tim Curry, one of my favourite actors, was my main reason for seeing 'Pirates of the Plain', wanting to see as much of his work as possible.
It is his performance as Jezebel Jack that holds 'Pirates of the Plain' together, one that could either have floated or sank depending on execution. Luckily, Curry is simply terrific and clearly having a whale of a time, while not one of his best performances it is a fond reminder as to why he is such a favourite.
Seth Adkins matches him beautifully, with his chemistry with Curry being as prominent as it is it was crucial for it to work and work it does. His character is one that a lot of youngsters can relate to, with his imagination and such, and Adkins gives an adorable, warm-hearted and playful portrayal that contrasts perfectly with Curry's. Their true-to-life and genuine bonding scenes in the first half is where 'Pirates of the Plain' really shines and where most of the fun and charm is.
Dee Wallace and Charles Napier also support them well, in fact there's not much that can be complained about with the cast. The scenery is beautiful and in no way looks cheap, while there is a made-for-TV look to the photography at times it still doesn't cheapen the scenery and the rest of the production values.
'Pirates of the Plain's' script is funny, playful and high in wit, with many scenes that are often humorous and sometimes even hilarious (the best of them with Curry), in the first half, and with its fair share of heart and charm. Pacing is efficient, as is the direction.
Where 'Pirates of the Plain' isn't so good is in some of the second half. This is where things go overboard with the ridiculousness and feels agreed like a tamer and more cartoony re-tread of 'Home Alone', a tone that is too far removed from the bonding between Adkins and Curry in the first half and it just feels like a different film altogether. Some of it this said is creative and entertaining though.
As said, the miniscule (or so it seems) budget does show at times, and while the rest of the pirates are played competently enough they're a bit forgettable and not as fun as Curry.
Overall, didn't expect much but surprising really enjoyed it. Children will absolutely love it, but adults by all means should not find it a long haul. 7/10 Bethany Cox
