This film is very loosely based on Radio Caroline, a popular pirate radio ship with a similar history and style. It was director Richard Curtis’s intention to weave a fictional story around the many pirate stations of that era, rather, than base the tale on a factual story. The film follows the adventure and rebellion of Radio Rock.  Radio Rock is a pirate radio station in the middle of the North Sea that’s populated by an eclectic crew of rock and roll DJs. Richard Curtis does a wonder job portraying a band of rogue DJs that captivate Britain by playing the music that defined a generation; and their story to defy the government’s attempt at the suppression of free speech. A few of the dominate characters are: The Count, a big, brash, American god of the airwaves. Quentin, the boss of Radio Rock. Gavin, the greatest DJ in Britain who has just returned from his drug tour of America to reclaim his rightful position. Dave, an ironic, intelligent and cruelly funny co-broadcaster; and a fearsome British government official out for blood against the drug takers and lawbreakers of a once-great nation.

I truly enjoyed the movie and could not have anticipated a better ending.  Do not watch this film if you are seeking a documentary or a recounting of all true events. However, all in all the film seems to have more of an “artsy underdog” feel and was enjoyable to watch.  Pirate Radio has a truly remarkable soundtrack that seems to set the mood of the entire film.  The soundtrack has such artist as Jimi Hendrix, The Who, The Turtles, The Kinks, and many more classic groups.

I interviewed a movie goer from England who reminisced of the time when she listened to the radio pirates out in the North Sea.  She too remarked that the film may not have been historically accurate, but it did seem to revive the memories and lives of past rebels.

MPAA Rating: Rated R for language, and some sexual content including brief nudity
Runtime: 135 minutes