This is a filming of a stage production, and not a very good stage production. The sets looked nice but that's about it. Frederic is played but a middle-aged effeminate man; we're supposed to believe he's 21 and in search of love. The Pirate Kings' (and the majority of the casts')lack of acting skills leave every comedic line flat, dropping the audiences interest to boredom. The leads' vocal talent is severely lacking; Frederic, Pirate King, Ruth... all horrid. The show should be energetic and full of life and excitement, but the lack of direction leaves you yawning and waiting for intermission. Seek out the Kevin Kline & Linda Ronstadt, Angela Landsbury version (1983), you'll be much happier.
Review of The Pirates of Penzance
