Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Tale of kids versus time-traveling pirates has some peril.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
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Timecrafters: The Treasure of Pirate's Cove
What's the Story?
TIMECRAFTERS: THE TREASURE OF PIRATE'S COVE is the story of how Josh (Casey Simpson) and his friends find a pirate's treasure map while beachcombing one day. Little could they imagine that the very same day, a group of pirates from the 18th century wash up on the same shore, and they're after the very same map. Pirate Geoffrey Pistol (Eric Balfour) is convinced the map will lead to the infamous Captain Kidd's lost treasure. Hot on Pistol's heels is the vengeful Captain Lynch (Malcolm McDowell), who was betrayed by Pistol and will stop at nothing to get the treasure himself.
Is It Any Good?
This time-travelling pirate story will be fun for tweens, but it's got some problems that are likely to keep teens and adults from truly enjoying it. Of course, Timecrafters: The Treasure of Pirate's Cove has swashbuckling swordfights, cannons blazing, and four kids who find a treasure map and manage to stay one step ahead of the pirates at every turn. The adult actors are a bit uneven, but the supporting cast is solid and provides some fun comic relief. Veteran actor Malcolm McDowell seems to be having fun as a revenge-seeking, evil pirate captain.
The script is weak, often stating the obvious (again) instead of advancing the story or action. There are too many subplots (most of them cliches) to make it easy for little kids to follow. And there are a few plot holes and a continuity problem or two that teens and adults will see right through. Think of it as a low-budget The Goonies. Still, for the right age group it's not terrible, and with fewer content concerns than the '80s classic, it's a viable candidate for a sleepover night.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about stereotypes in The Treasure of Pirate's Cove. What is a stereotype? Did you notice any characters like that? Why are stereotypes harmful in movies, TV, games, etc.?
Pirate movies and games are always popular. What do we love about them? What are some of your favorites?
This movie combines time-traveling science fiction with treasure-hunting pirates. Is this movie a good combination of the two? Why or why not?
What character strengths and life skills do the characters display?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : December 12, 2020
- Cast : Denise Richards , Malcolm McDowell , Eric Balfour , Casey Simpson
- Director : Rick Spalla
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Quiver Distribution
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Adventures , Friendship , Pirates
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 105 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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