Review of Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl

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Every so often a film comes along that completely dominates at the box office, despite its relatively modest arrival on the scene. Pirates of the Caribbean is an example of such a film, which seemingly appeared out of the left field with very little fanfare, yet managed to spawn a multi-billion dollar franchise out of its success. Pirates is an epic sea-faring adventure which ticks all of the right action boxes and is coupled to a generous side portion of comedy that dissolves intense scenes and makes for enjoyable repeated viewing. Being a Disney movie, it's safe to say that the film is aimed at a relatively young audience, but such is its popularity and appeal, there is something for viewers of all ages.

The cast list these days reads as 'all-star', though back in 2003, it's probably safe to say that Keira Knightly was not a household name and I'd never heard of Geoffrey Rush, but this movie and its sequels have helped make international stars of the actors involved. Not only that, but it's contribution to pop-culture is massive. This film will be remembered as one of the most defining of the opening years of the twentieth century. There is no doubt that nowadays pirates are 'cool' in real life, almost to the point of lethargy, though before this movie, I can't remember a successful genre-defining film that ever focused on the much-romanticised plunderers of the open sea.

The story focuses on the exploits of an unlikely team up comprising of world-renowned pirate, Captain Jack Sparrow, and a noble pirate-hating blacksmith, Will Turner, who form an unholy alliance in order that Will might save his love interest and Jack might win back his eponymous ship The Black Pearl - which are both being held by Jack's treacherous former first mate, Hector Barbossa. After commandeering a ship from the bungling Royal Navy, Jack and Will recruit a crew and set off in search of Barbossa and his cursed pirate mob. In a classic tale involving pirate codes, disloyalties and mistrust on the high seas, sword fights, black magic, a brief love quadrangle and some wholly impressive special effects (all of which being coupled to an epic score), the protagonists form something of an uneasy yet deeply respectful bond with each other as they strive to achieve their goals and retrieve what is rightfully theirs.

Johnny Depp's portrayal of the charismatic and lovable Jack Sparrow is the true star of the show. He is the linchpin of the entire trilogy and there's no doubt in my mind that the success of the entire franchise is thanks to his tremendous acting. The appreciation that Johnny Depp receives from rabid fangirls these days, and the adulation of Jack Sparrow on the whole are all a result of this tremendous performance. Flamboyant and hilarious, Jack Sparrow - from his legendary entry into Port Royal to his courageous final escape - is a character that cannot be overlooked and has to receive every plaudit. I'm not the biggest fan of either Orlando Bloom or Keira Knightly, but their performances are dwarfed by Depp's acting and as a result, I still enjoyed the film. Hector Barbossa is a worthwhile opponent for Jack, as his evil is so uncomplex and simple that it complements the eccentric - yet inept captain to a tee.

Filled with quirky sidekicks and supporting characters throughout, there are recognisable actors that are more than able to keep the story ticking over during the slower moments of this deceptively long film. When all is said and done, Pirate's will be remembered as a film where memorable characters were seemingly interwoven with glorious special effects in beautiful locations on an adventure that could be enjoyed indiscriminately by family members of all ages.

8/10

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Added by Grand Assault 4 months ago on 10 June 2008 07:53