The Pirate Code

With little direction, except for a survivor's testimony and a cryptic clue, salvage expert Barry Clifford embarks on the search of a lifetime to uncover the nearly 300-year-old wreck site of the Whydah Galley and its four-and-a-half tons of treasure. The Pirate Code: Real Pirates brings to life "Black Sam" Bellamy—a legend during the golden age of piracy—and follows one man's quest to resurrect Black Sam's ship from its watery grave.

Directed by —, The Pirate Code leans on a strong ensemble — Bill Graves, Clifford Barry — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2009.