Pirates Of The Caribbean Review: Stranger But Better Tides Than The Last

I’m a huge fan of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. I, like most females, find something irresistibly charming about Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow. But does this 4th edition, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides live up to its predecessors? It’s not the first one, but it’s better than the last one.

It seems that throughout this supposed-to-be-triliogy, Jack Sparrow has been toned down more and more. With the mega-sucess of the previous films (grossing over 2 billion worldwide) I wouldn’t doubt that there’s probably going to be a 5th film heading our way soon, but at that point this will be a sinking ship. Unless… Here’s my pitch for a 5th Pirates which would be a must-see for me. We meet Sparrow’s brother – and he’s played by Russell Brand. You know you would see that film. Everyone would see that film. Back in 2008, Brand was rumored to be in talks to join On Stranger Tides, and I think that would have been a great addition.

Back to On Stranger Tides, this film revolves around the infamous Fountain of Youth. Captain Jack Sparrow isn’t the only one in its pursuit. The British, the Spanish, and Blackbeard himself are all en route. Sparrow finds himself on Blackbeard’s ship, and after a failed attempt at mutiny – he’s not really sure who to fear more, Blackbeard or his daughter Angelica (who Sparrow may or may not have some sort of feelings for).

On Stranger Tides definitely has a different feel to it than the other films since Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightly opted not to return. In their place lies the beautiful and sexy Penélope Cruz, but she’s not the only new addition. There’s also zombies and mermaids a plently (Including one beautiful Amanda Seyfried – Gemma Ward (Wow they look similar!). Pirates fans can also opt for the 3-D viewing experience, which is fun – but there’s not really any scene where I said to myself, “You know, this is totally worth the extra to see in 3-D.”

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides is enjoyable – but not memorable. It’s about the action/fights/explosions more-so than the story, and with a toned down Jack Sparrow – it just can’t hold a candle to the original. That being said, it’s the best film coming out this weekend, and it will be a nice prelude to the – hopefully – stronger summer blockbusters coming our way.

Grade: B-
Official Site: http://disney.go.com/pirates/

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides Review By: Emma Loggins

Responses

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  1. Pretty good review, but Amanda Seyfried wasn’t in the movie. The first mermaid did look a lot like her though.

  2. Wow. You’re right. I’ve updated the review to reflect that. Her name was Gemma Ward. Thanks for pointing that out!

  3. ok so i just got back from seeing the movie. i totally agree it wasnt memorable as the original movie. but still entertaining. i was hoping keith richards would have a bigger part. the 30 seconds he was on screen was great. and i totally love your idea of russel brand joining the next film.

  4. If you do check it out – I would do it in regular format. The extra amount for 3D isn’t really worth it. But if you’re a fan of the franchise changes are you’ll enjoy it. 🙂

  5. personally i hate 3D movies. those glasses always give me a headache and im finding i have to strain my eyes more to considerate on the movie. plus 3d ticket prices are way more money