Pirates of the Caribbean

I held off writing this review for a long time, since I knew so many other people would leap at the chance to praise "Pirates of the Caribbean" up one side and down the other. It's not that the film doesn't deserve praise -- it does. It's the best swashbuckler to come out in fifty years. I saw it four times in the cinema, which for someone who has to drive sixty miles one-way to reach a theatre, is second only to my "Lord of the Rings" trips. The movie satisfies on a lot of levels. It has humor, romance, horror, and comedy. There's also a very unique, intelligent scriptwriter at work behind the scenes. The dialogue is (almost) all first-rate, though a couple of recent terms were thrown in for comical purposes. As a connoisseur of period films, I can tell you the historical accurately is fairly first-rate (with the minor exception of blush-worthy plot mistakes such as having Port Royal situated on the cliffs).The cinematography on this film is what makes it outstanding. Whether it's Elizabeth Swann preparing to faint from a too-tight-corset on a parapet, or the tattered Black Pearl sailing in the moonlight, there's always something wondrous to gaze at on the screen. One fantastic underwater shot peruses a school of hammerheads as they drift endlessly through an underwater cove of sunken, ghostly ships. The introductory scene is also stunning, one of the most spell-casting experiences I've ever had the pleasure of witnessing. The Interceptor creeping through a mist-shrouded sea, the umbrella floating by, the magnificent horror of seeing a burning merchant ship, and our first glimpse of the Black Pearl as it sails into the fog. This scene alone makes the movie ticket price well worth it... and that's only the first four minutes.As many profession and personal critics have observed, the film belongs to Johnny Depp's memorable performance as "Captain" Jack Sparrow, the single pirate able to elude the curse thanks to his crew mutinying before the gold could be spent. But the other performers shouldn't be overlooked in his hilariously likable wake. In the role of a very strong, independent heroine, Kiera Knightley manages to be both beautiful and spirited without escaping into cliché. Orlando Bloom is more likable here than as the aloof Legolas he's become so well known for; with some excellent action scenes, he shows his unique skill with a blade as well as has the opportunity to carry off a romantic lead with a keen flair. Geoffrey Rush is at his best; being a fan of his endeavors, it was a pleasure to watch him on screen in a very different, very misunderstood role. He manages to make Barbossa both fascinating, horrible, and yet have a shred of sorrow at the end for his passing. Two extremely underrated actors, Britain's Jack Davenport and Jonathan Pryce, are given the respective roles of Commodore Norrington, Elizabeth's unfortunate fiancée, and her governor father.For once, scriptwriters haven't copped out and given us an easy decision. While being slightly arrogant and something of an egotist, Norrington is also extremely likable, a perfect gentleman, and one might even go so far as to say, the most noble character by the closing credits. Davenport plays him with just the right amount of lethargic enthusiasm and irritation; his scenes with Depp, always wrought with blatant humor, are some of the film's finest moments. Pryce doesn't have a lot to work with, but the audience cannot help but chuckle over some of his humorous traits, such as fighting a skeletal hand for his magnanimous wig. The music is also first-rate, very mood-setting with a certain sense of dramatic tension even in romantic scenes. The film is well worth a PG13 rating, but is never inappropriate for younger audiences. The mild innuendo will go over children's heads (and most parents as well, for that matter -- only literature history-lovers will pick up some of the sly historical jests), the violence is all quite bloodless, and there's virtually no profanity. The pirates are properly frightening and in various stages of decay, extremely cool from a CGI perspective.A movie well worth its praise, and one you simply MUST own on DVD for all its subtleties.

When it comes to adventure movies with a dash of supernatural elements, few films have captured the public's imagination quite like "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl." Released in 2003, the movie, directed by Gore Verbinski and starring Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, and Keira Knightley, offered a perfect blend of action, humor, and suspense. Here's what makes this film a modern classic:A Unique and Engaging Story:Set against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea in the Golden Age of Piracy, the film weaves an enthralling tale of cursed pirates, hidden treasure, and a damsel who's not so in distress. The plot is well-paced, giving room for both action and drama, making it a fulfilling watch.Memorable Characters:Johnny Depp's portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow is iconic for a reason. His quirky mannerisms, comedic timing, and magnetic screen presence make Sparrow a character for the ages. Orlando Bloom as Will Turner and Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Swann add depth and heart to the film, offering more than just sidekick roles.Cinematography and Special Effects:The visual elements are astounding for their time and have aged remarkably well. From the ghostly appearances of the cursed pirates to the stunning sea battles, the special effects complement the story without overwhelming it.Score and Soundtrack:Composer Hans Zimmer's score adds a grandiose touch, underlining key moments and contributing to the movie's larger-than-life feel. The soundtrack remains one of the most recognizable and enduring aspects of the film.Humor and Wit:One of the standout features is the film's humor. Sparrow's one-liners, the clever repartee, and the comic relief provided by side characters all contribute to making this a genuinely entertaining experience.My Opinion:In my view, "The Curse of the Black Pearl" successfully modernized the pirate genre for a new generation while staying true to its adventurous roots. It took risks with its storytelling and character development that paid off incredibly well, resulting in a franchise that has stood the test of time.Would I recommend this film? Without a doubt. Whether you're a fan of adventure films, pirate lore, or just looking for a highly entertaining movie, "The Curse of the Black Pearl" ticks all the boxes.In summary, "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl" remains an exceptional adventure film that masterfully combines humor, action, and supernatural elements into an unforgettable cinematic experience. With stellar performances, impressive visuals, and a compelling storyline, it stands as a high-water mark in the adventure genre.

It is a fun movie. Action and comedy. Just a great watch.