HMS Pinafore (1997): cast, story & where to watch
1997 · Film · ★ 8.5
Released in 1997, HMS Pinafore is a music film, running about 130 minutes.
What it’s about. This nautical story of star-crossed lovers kicks off when the Captain of the H.M.S. PINAFORE makes arrangements for his daughter to marry the Lord Admiral of the Navy. However, problems ensue when his daughter reveals she’s in love with a low-ranking seaman aboard her father’s ship. Ironically, the Captain finds himself in a similar position with a dockside vendor called Little Buttercup. The whole situation is turned on its head when Little Buttercup reveals a game-changing secret she has kept for decades... This is no ordinary production of G&S. It fairly zings along, bubbling with joie de vivre, good humour and spice. However, you won't like this version of Pinafore if you're a strict G&S traditionalist. Considerable liberties are taken with the script; two songs are left out and several songs adapted from other G&S operas are added; Act II has been radically changed - and the music is played on three Moog synthesizers, with never a violin in sight!
Who’s in it. HMS Pinafore stars Simon Gallaher as Ralph Rackstraw, Jon English as Dick Deadeye, Helen Donaldson as Josephine Corcoran and Amanda Muggleton as Little Buttercup, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 8.5/10, HMS Pinafore sits among the best-reviewed titles in the catalogue.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch HMS Pinafore page.
If you liked it. Fans of HMS Pinafore tend to enjoy Whiplash, Coco, Green Book and The Legend of 1900.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch HMS Pinafore (1997)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for HMS Pinafore change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is HMS Pinafore worth watching?
- HMS Pinafore holds an audience score of 8.5 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy music. Most viewers rate it highly.
- Who stars in HMS Pinafore?
- HMS Pinafore stars Simon Gallaher, Jon English, Helen Donaldson, Amanda Muggleton and Drew Forsythe.