Watch The Pirates of Penzance

The Pirates of Penzance is a musical comedy film based on the 1879 comic opera of the same name by Gilbert and Sullivan. Directed by Wilford Leach, the movie was released in 1983 and stars Kevin Kline, Angela Lansbury, and Linda Ronstadt in the lead roles. The story revolves around a young man named Frederic (played by Rex Smith) who has been mistakenly apprenticed to a band of pirates till the age of 21. On the day of his release, Frederic meets Mabel (played by Linda Ronstadt), the daughter of Major-General Stanley (Kevin Kline) and they fall in love. However, things get complicated when Frederic learns that he was born in a leap year and technically won't turn 21 for several more years. He is bound to serve the pirates until then.

The film follows Frederic as he struggles to escape from the clutches of the pirates and be reunited with Mabel. Along the way, he encounters the Major-General, who is a master of wordplay and song and a group of police officers who are less than competent. The movie is filled with humor, romance, and catchy songs that leave the viewers humming along.

Kevin Kline is the standout performer in the movie, delivering a brilliant performance as the Major-General. His rendition of the famous song 'I am the Very Model of a Modern Major-General' is a showstopper and remains one of the highlights of the movie. Angela Lansbury is also excellent in her role as Ruth, the nursemaid to Frederic who is also in love with him.

Linda Ronstadt, who was primarily known as a singer before her acting debut in the movie, holds her own against the seasoned actors. Her rendition of the song 'Poor Wandering One' is a joy to watch and showcases her vocal prowess.

The costumes, set design, and choreography are all top-notch and add to the grandeur and charm of the movie. The film was shot on location in Cornwall, England, and the stunning seaside vistas make for a picturesque backdrop to the action.

The Pirates of Penzance is a timeless classic that has been adapted numerous times for stage and screen. The 1983 movie remains one of the most beloved adaptations and is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys musical comedies and lighthearted entertainment. The film strikes the perfect balance between humor and heart, making it an enjoyable experience from start to finish.

In conclusion, The Pirates of Penzance is a delightful musical comedy that will leave viewers tapping their toes and humming the songs long after the credits have rolled. The stellar cast, humorous script, and catchy tunes make it a must-watch for anyone who loves the genre. The film has stood the test of time and remains a cherished favorite among audiences of all ages.

The Pirates of Penzance is a 1983 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 52 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1 and a MetaScore of 66.