Pirates: 3D Show

I believe this is also the film that is used in the Pirate 4D show at Thorpe park, just outside of London. Rumours over the past few years have suggested it is to be replaced, but it has not been yet. A fun family entertainer, that has lost its ability to surprise due to being around too long. It contains a number of extra effects in addition to the usual 3D displays such as buzzing seats and water squirted at you in synchronisation to the film. The overall experience is good, and the presence of well known stars such as Leslie Nielsen (the king of spoof), and Monty Python's finest, Eric Idle, add to the credibility, but with them both playing supportive roles to a young boy, this does little to add to the depth of the characters. In truth, it is a real short, made to entertain theme park guests, and as such should not be compared to a movie or TV show, but if it is to be compared, then the acting is very cardboardy and lacking in any conviction.

I agree Pirates 4D isn't completely brilliant. I loved it though first time when I went to Thorpe Park, but the next time I wasn't as impressed. The sets and costumes are colourful, it goes at a good pace and the music was decent. And the effects are good, such as the buzzing seats and the water, and the acting of Leslie Nielson and Eric Idle is credible. The most memorable parts were the talking parrot, who was hilarious, and the bees, since I have a phobia of bees and wasps I was screaming hysterically. However, the story is nothing special and the writing is a little crummy. Also the characters lack depth and the film ends rather abruptly. Overall, it is worthwhile but it could have been better at the same time. 6/10 Bethany Cox

This short comedy is still running at the Globe Theater, London at Busch Gardens Europe, Williamsburg, VA. It's typical Nielson pratfalls and buffoonery, but nonetheless humorous and the kids love it.

I've seen the show about a dozen times or so, usually when its raining or too hot to schlep through the park with the crowds. The venue provides a nice respite from the rest of the park during our sweltering VA summer heat.

As far as I know, Pirates 4-D is still on the bill for this summer. ('08) There are some other new things at the park (I'm not allowed to disclose, they made me sign a no release form) but I'm sure they're sure to be great.

See you at the park!

Pirates 4D (as it is called over here in the U.K.) is the latest attraction to be found at the London theme park Thorpe Park. For 15 fun packed minutes the audience are literally transported into the movie, with a whole host of effects to keep the entire family happy. Bats, Bees and spiders all seem to come out of the screen and terrify everybody! The plot itself is very simple Captain Lucky (Leslie Nielsen)and his crew of no good pirates (including Eric Idle in long wig) venture to an exotic island to find the customary treasure. Unfortunately a young boy with a vengeance has other ideas! Warning you are guaranteed to get soaked to the bone at this attraction!

I loved whenever they had the 4d version at the globe theater at Busch Gardens Williamsburg growing up as a kid