The Pirates of Somalia

The Pirates of Somalia is a 2017 American drama film written and directed by Bryan Buckley. The film stars Evan Peters, Al Pacino, Melanie Griffith, and Barkhad Abdi. The film had its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on April 27, 2017.

The film was released on December 8, 2017 and is currently on Netflix.

Plot
In 2008, rookie journalist Jay Bahadur forms a half-baked plan to embed himself among the pirates of Somalia. He ultimately succeeds in providing the first close-up look into who these men are, how they live, and the forces that drive them.

Why It Rocks

 * 1) The story is based off true events, resulting in its eligibility.
 * 2) A smart choice by director Bryan Buckley who starts the movie with a voice-over, as Bahadur's character is quick to say that he hates voice-overs.
 * 3) The film has a couple of 2D animated segments that are brightly colored, very fluid, and eye-popping.
 * 4) The acting is pretty good all round. The very credible performances buy all our lead players, aside from Melanie Griffiths who seems to be playing a parody of the role she's cast in, though Evan Peter's performance as Jay Bahadur is a stand out.
 * 5) The true elements of the film is how piracy got its start in this poor and almost forgotten African nation and more importantly why it happens to this day.
 * 6) It gives the viewer a really different perspective on the story of these proud people who have a history of culture and used to settle disputes with poetry, not violence.
 * 7) The film has a tight and well-written script, accurately depicting the highs and lows of life in Somalia.
 * 8) A memorable beginning and ending.
 * 9) An amazing soundtrack by Ed Hartman.
 * 10) Over the credits, however, were treated to some of Bahadur's photos, including images of some of the characters in the movie.

Bad Qualities

 * 1) The screenplay should have been more earnestly approached, the script more tinged with emotion, and the proceedings more anxious and edgy.

Reception
The Pirates of Somalia currently holds a 67% “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Release
The film had its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on April 27, 2017. Shortly after, Echo Bridge acquired U.S. distribution rights to the film, and set it for a December 8, 2017, release.