User reviews

The boys on the Tiri and Tiri II braved storms, police and seasickness to broadcast pirate radio to Auckland. This film relates their story in a rather cliched fashion. The acting and filmography is decent. The writers mucked around with timelines unnecessarily, presumeably for dramatic effect. Its worth a watch, and has some nice retro touches in its settings.

Straight to dvd pretty much sums up this effort from first time producer director Craig Newland. This film had such historical potential but first time hubris hindered what ultimately could have been an entertaining story

My husband picked this film and it was totally not what I was expecting. I was totally captivated after the dramatic opening scene. What a wonderfully told story which is based on a true story.

I had no idea this actually happened and it's incredible these young people were so courageous to do what they did. The story was brilliantly told and the actors knew what their characters needed to say.

An impressive film well worth the watch 10 stars from me!

Loved this NZ made movie, didn't have any expectations, so was pleasantly surprised by this gem. It had a bit of everything for me, adventure, humor, romance, and a good story line.

Loved Matt Whelan! Good to see a mostly New Zealand cast.

I can see why this film is winning International Film Awards. Would be nice if it got the same recognition in New Zealand. The movie left me feeling good after wards and made me appreciate that we can now listen to any music station we wish to tune in to, thanks to the determination of a few very brave Radio Pirates. This movie definitely has a very New Zealand flavor which is very refreshing to see.

Direct to DVD perhaps says it all. This story had so much potential however hubris on the part of the Producers and Director saw needles delays in production, gaps in the script and a dropping off of well known NZ stars that would have enhanced the quality of this film.

Better luck with your next project if another appears on the horizon for you.

This is an epic Kiwi tale of the little guys fighting the bureaucrats to establish New Zealand's first Rock Radio Station, Radio Hauraki. When they couldn't get a legal radio license to operate a radio station, they set sail in a rickety old boat, the "Tiri" and start broadcasting from International waters just off the coast of Auckland. Its a tale of shear determination in the face of overwhelming odds. There is tragedy and euphoria in equal measures. The cast do a great job and really bring the story alive. Recommended!

If you are looking for a feel good film like I was. 1480 Radio Pirates delivers a great story which sucks you into the journey of the main players and their quest for glory! The world of the 1960's and music resonated with me which was weird because I was born in 1985. Never boring and the ensemble cast collectively were all believable in their characters part in the story. Totally recommend for an entertaining watch. Well done! 9/10 Stars.

Praise to the cast, crew and all involved with this little gem of a movie.

The story had me captivated from the first moment, really drawing the viewer in to the tightly crafted screenplay. A joy to behold.

Such a significant part of New Zealand broadcast history, but also radio broadcasting generally. A must watch!

Music is so important in all our lives and this movie hits the right note.

Thoroughly recommended.

A true story told in a very 'real' manner and enjoyable to watch! A must watch for all, as not only does it display an accurate account of New Zealand's history, but also gives the audience an insight into our 'kiwi' ingenuity and perseverance! A classic movie with spirit and soul!!!

I was not prepared for the visuals this movie offered. Nevertheless, I absorbed it in its full glory. It was easy to enjoy this movie not only because of its visuals but also because of the quirkiness and lovable characters. A must-watch! Amazing story, very original and authentic.

Enjoyable nostalgic film. The characters portrayed the humble, laidback, affable mannerism of the kiwi of yesteryear.

A beautiful story that at its core is a never say never attitude of keep going no matter what. A finely crafted film in every way and superbly acted by all involved. The 1960's music was a character by itself as was the era it stirred with the emotional rollercoaster ride.

A spirited film for standing up for what you believe in and never giving up.

It was all put together so well and from the director down, great job everyone!

The music in this film set the tone for everything that followed. The romance between Richard and Judy was just enough without over complicating the story and the way the fight for their freedoms all played out. Incredible this actually took place and happened. How times have changed.

9/10 A thoroughly enjoyable feel good film!!!!

I was right there with them on the journey of fighting for music and self expression.