Pirate's Passage

Pirate's Passage is an animated adventure film that was released in 2015. It is based on the 2005 novel of the same name by William Gilkerson. The film features the voices of Donald Sutherland, Gage Munroe, and Carrie-Anne Moss.

The story starts in a small town called Grey Rocks in Nova Scotia, Canada. Jim (voiced by Munroe) is a young boy who is struggling to cope with the recent passing of his father, who was a sailor. Jim's father left him a book about pirates, which he treasures dearly. However, Jim's mother (voiced by Moss) does not like the book and wants him to focus on his schoolwork instead of spending his time daydreaming.

One day, a mysterious old sailor named Captain Johnson (voiced by Sutherland) arrives in Grey Rocks with his ship, The Vermont. He rents a room at the local inn and catches the attention of Jim, who becomes fascinated with the Captain and his stories about the Golden Age of Piracy. Jim soon discovers that the Captain may not be who he seems, and the two of them embark on an adventure to find hidden treasure while facing dangerous obstacles along the way.

The animation in Pirate's Passage is stunning and well-done. The film has a unique style that combines 2D and 3D animation, giving it a vintage feel while still feeling modern. The attention to detail in the art direction is impressive, and the film is filled with stunning landscapes and seascapes. The film's score, composed by Andrew Lockington, adds to the overall sense of adventure and wonder.

One of the strongest aspects of Pirate's Passage is its characters. Jim is a relatable protagonist, and the film does an excellent job of portraying his grief and struggles. Captain Johnson is a fascinating character, and Sutherland's performance adds gravitas to his every word. Moss's portrayal of Jim's mother is also noteworthy, as she brings a sense of realism to the film's emotional core.

The film also tackles themes of grief, loss, and family dynamics. Jim's journey is not just about finding treasure and going on adventures but about coming to terms with his father's death and finding a way to move forward. The film does an excellent job of balancing these heavier themes with the light-hearted adventure elements.

Overall, Pirate's Passage is a charming and well-crafted animated film that is sure to appeal to both children and adults. It tells a compelling story with memorable characters and stunning visuals. Anyone who is a fan of adventure films or pirate stories will surely enjoy this film.