Playmobil: The Secret of Pirate Island by Sony Pictures

Editorial Review

“Playmobil toys are a longtime children's favorite, and now those little plastic people with the hands that grip are coming to life in their very own pirate movie. A trip to Grandma and Grandpa's house becomes an adventure at sea for 7-year-old Jack and his big sister Amelia when they're magically transported onto a pirate ship headed out on a treasure hunt. After the captain discovers the two stowaways, it looks like their journey will be a short one, but Amelia's quick thinking just as a legendary octopus approaches the ship earns her and Jack appointments as deck hands. Always the impulsive one, Jack is excited to join the pirates' search for hidden treasure, but Amelia, with her highly developed sense of right and wrong and more cautious nature, is less enthusiastic. Nonetheless, the pair sets off after the pirates when they land on Skull Island, in hopes of finding the treasure before the pirates do. In the end, it will require the combined efforts of the children and the pirates to ensure that everyone gets off the island safely. Musical moments are sprinkled throughout the pirates' journey and feature both Amelia and a quirky pirate rock band called “”The Play It Real Rockers.””

This DVD features two versions of the movie: “”Captain Gruff's Favorite Movie,”” which runs an uninterrupted 50 minutes, and an interactive version in which viewers choose between multiple paths at key intervals throughout the film–there are a whopping 27 potential story combinations. The viewer's choices alter the path of the movie, sometimes only slightly and at other times so significantly that they completely change the story's outcome. No matter which path viewers choose, there are important lessons about dealing with temptation, overcoming fears, and doing what's right. The Secret of Pirate Island isn't the best pirate movie on the market, but it's entertaining and kids will love its Playmobil stars and the opportunity to guide the characters' actions. (Ages 5 and older) –Tami Horiuchi ”

Stills from Playmobil: The Secret of Pirate Island (Click for larger image)