“Pirate Radio” is entertaining, well written — but also forgettable. Directed and written by Richard Curtis (“Love Actually,” “Four Weddings and a Funeral”), there’s no question this movie will appeal to rock lovers and rock dummies alike. However, that doesn’t make it a memorable film.

In theory, this comedy has everything going for it: actors who can actually act (like Philip Seymour Hoffman), a reasonably original plot and a witty, Oscar-nominated screenwriter. The movie is based on the true story of a seafaring group of rock-obsessed DJs who captivated 1960’s Britain with their “pirate radio.” This at a time where rock music was mostly banned from the airways so the group broadcast live-to-air in an old tanker from the middle of the North Sea.

Their radio station helped unify millions across the nation and their story is without a doubt hilarious as told by Curtis. So what’s the problem? It’s just clustered. “Pirate Radio” is an ensemble film, but one with too many characters. While the movie does a fantastic job of developing a handful of oddball DJs, the rest of them are merely props.

There are some fantastic scenes in “Pirate Radio,” but unfortunately they just flit from one to the next. The one thing (or character) who reoccurs throughout many of the scenes and sort of binds them is a teenager by the name of Carl (played by Tom Sturridge), the godson to Quentin (Bill Nighy, the station’s manager). He’s freshly expelled from school and sent by his mother to spend some time on board. Having Carl’s character in the movie is smart to say the least because it makes the film accessible to a much younger crowd (including those who think a record only refers to an achievement).

One thing that’s definitely phenomenal about this movie is its cast. From established actors including Hoffman, Nighy and Emma Thompson to younger actors like Sturridge and “007’s” Gemma Arterton, the movie exudes talent.

The plot is interesting as well. The thing that keeps this movie going is the government’s attempts at sinking the pirates through legislation, along with subplots from some of the DJs. When one subplot is unveiled, another one takes off. The problem is there’s too much filler to get cheep laughs from the audience.

However, with all it’s faults, “Pirate Radio” is still a worthwhile movie. The film may not be a masterpiece (and may be a half hour too long), but the songs it features are without a doubt classics. I mean, you can’t go wrong with a soundtrack that includes The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and The Kinks can you?

Related posts:

1. Orlando No Longer a Pirate
2. Lou Reed Kicks Off Radio Show
3. Movie Review: Stardust

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