10 Movies and Shows Like Pirates of Treasure Island (2006)

Description: This Errol Flynn classic is a foundational pirate film, much like 'Pirates of Treasure Island.' Both movies feature dashing pirate captains, sword fights, and romantic subplots. The adventurous tone and period setting are nearly identical.

Fact: Errol Flynn’s breakout role launched his career as a swashbuckling star. The film was based on Rafael Sabatini’s novel. It was one of the first movies to use a full orchestral score.

Description: While not a pirate film, 'The Goonies' shares the treasure-hunting theme and youthful adventure spirit of 'Pirates of Treasure Island.' Both involve maps, hidden riches, and a group of underdogs overcoming obstacles.

Fact: Directed by Richard Donner and produced by Steven Spielberg. The underground pirate ship set was one of the largest ever built at the time. The truffle shuffle became a pop culture phenomenon.

Description: A comedic take on 'Treasure Island,' this film parallels 'Pirates of Treasure Island' in its source material and pirate adventure tropes. Both are family-friendly, though 'Muppet Treasure Island' leans heavily into humor and musical numbers.

Fact: Tim Curry plays the villainous Long John Silver. The film includes original songs like 'Cabin Fever.' It was the Muppets’ second literary adaptation after 'A Christmas Carol.'

Description: This film shares the nautical setting and detailed depiction of life at sea with 'Pirates of Treasure Island.' Both movies highlight naval warfare, leadership struggles, and the camaraderie (or conflicts) among crew members. The historical accuracy and shipboard dynamics are key similarities.

Fact: The film is based on Patrick O'Brian’s Aubrey-Maturin series. Russell Crowe learned to play the violin for his role. It won two Academy Awards for Cinematography and Sound Editing.

Description: This blockbuster shares the adventurous spirit, supernatural elements, and treasure-hunting plot of 'Pirates of Treasure Island.' Both films feature charismatic pirate leads, cursed treasures, and a mix of humor and action. The visual aesthetics of ships, islands, and period costumes are also strikingly similar.

Fact: Johnny Depp's portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow was inspired by Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards. The film revived the pirate genre in Hollywood, leading to four sequels. It was initially based on a Disneyland ride of the same name.

Description: Though a sci-fi thriller, 'The Island' shares the theme of escape and hidden truths with 'Pirates of Treasure Island.' Both involve protagonists discovering a sinister reality behind their seemingly idyllic worlds.

Fact: Directed by Michael Bay, it was a box-office disappointment despite high expectations. The film’s plot was allegedly inspired by the 1979 movie 'Parts: The Clonus Horror.' It features early performances by Scarlett Johansson and Ewan McGregor.

Description: Like 'Pirates of Treasure Island,' 'Captain Phillips' is a tense maritime drama focusing on piracy, though it’s a modern thriller based on true events. Both films emphasize the danger and unpredictability of pirate encounters, albeit in different historical contexts.

Fact: Tom Hanks' performance was highly praised, particularly his emotional breakdown scene. The Somali pirates were played by non-professional actors from Minnesota’s Somali community. The film’s climax was shot in real time to heighten tension.

Description: Similar to 'Pirates of Treasure Island' (2006), 'Black Sails' is a swashbuckling adventure series that delves into pirate lore, treasure hunts, and high-seas battles. Both productions embrace the romanticized yet gritty portrayal of piracy, with strong thematic elements of betrayal, loyalty, and the quest for fortune. 'Black Sails' serves as a prequel to 'Treasure Island,' making it a direct narrative relative.

Fact: 'Black Sails' was filmed in Cape Town, South Africa, utilizing its coastal landscapes to mimic the Caribbean. The series blends historical figures like Blackbeard and Charles Vane with fictional characters from 'Treasure Island.' It was praised for its realistic depiction of 18th-century piracy, including the use of authentic ship designs.

Description: While not a traditional pirate adventure, 'The Pirates of Somalia' shares the high-stakes, perilous maritime setting of 'Pirates of Treasure Island.' Both films explore themes of survival and lawlessness, though 'The Pirates of Somalia' is grounded in modern-day realism rather than fantasy. The tension and danger of life at sea are central to both narratives.

Fact: The film is based on the true story of journalist Jay Bahadur, who embedded with Somali pirates. It stars Evan Peters, known for his roles in 'American Horror Story.' The movie highlights the socio-economic factors driving piracy in Somalia.

Description: A classic swashbuckler like 'Pirates of Treasure Island,' 'The Buccaneers' features pirate adventures, naval battles, and treasure hunts. Both are rooted in the golden age of piracy and emphasize daring escapades and heroic characters.

Fact: The series was produced by ITV and starred Robert Shaw. It was one of the first TV shows to depict pirates as complex antiheroes. The theme music became iconic in British television.