Speculated before the films initial release, this sequel would have a similar undertone of the first film in the franchise, 2003's "Curse of the Black Pearl". You would think those speculations to be true. But, I just think that the comparison between the two franchise films doesn't make any difference, reason being is that this series that has captivated audiences for over 14 years. And aren't very different in plot, especially in the franchise's fifth-time's-a-charm.
Unlike the directing talents of prior installments, the directors this time around, unknowables from Norway, Espen Sandberg and Joachim Ronning. The collaborative duo here makes sure that the action in this new round at sea is top-notch without the turbulence. Throughout the franchise, the action was a little rough around the edges. But, the new film however, does show improvement with its action.
Five movies, three composers. Klaus Badelt, Hans Zimmer who have worked on the franchise making the catchy sounds for the franchise in its time at sea, now hand the ship over to Geoff Zaneill. Zaneill makes just as a catchy score for this installment just like Zimmer and Badelt have done. Even so, some of the franchises own themes heard previously, can be heard in this film with Zaneill giving those themes a different edge to the film.
I'm not ever impressed by the acting in these movies, only am I impressed by and entertained by the goofiness and mischief that surrounds each character. In this film, you see new faces, and new foes from a character's past. The franchise sees the returns of alum: Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley and Geoffrey Rush. For the most part, the acting by the returning cast is more dramatic to the story than in prior films.
In this sequel, you will also see newcomers: Kaya Scodelario, Brenton Thwaites, Javier Bardem. Plus a cameo by none other than "Beatles" icon, Paul McCartney. The newcomers acting doesn't impress all but the comedic dialogue. And some of the characters acting and placing in the story fits well for constant drama as well as plot twists.
Thievery, mayhem, chaos and comedy. Ever since the ship first departed at sea, the franchise has had a few sunken ships-rocky waters along the way. But, has that ever stopped "Disney" from creating something so successful? I have no doubt in my mind this series will inspire "Disney" and other studios to create more films of this magnitude.
Rate: B
Director(s): Espen Sandberg and Joachim Ronning
Starring: Johnny Depp, Kaya Scodelario, Brenton Thwaites, Javier Bardem. Geoffrey Rush, Orlando Bloom, with Keira Knightley, and Kevin McNally, (Cameo by: Paul McCartney)
MPAA Rating: PG-13-(for sequences of adventure violence, and some suggestive content)
Runtime: 2 Hours and 9 Minutes
 |
| Photo: Disney |
Malawski’s Movie Rating System
A+ = Exceptional, One of a Kind, Masterpiece. Definite award season contender
A= Pure enjoyment, happy feeling. Satisfaction
A- = One to remember. Unforgettable
B+ = Can get a little over the top. But, it makes out as a good film.
B= This film has the potential to be better. Lacks in consistency
B- = Watches occasionally
C+ = Guilty pleasure territory
C= Causes viewer frustration due to lack of depth in the story
D+ = I hated this movie. Some parts were good. Overall, the film was garbage
D= Very few to no good parts about this movie
D- = Minimal qualities of excellence
F= Don’t even bother watching it. It’s that bad.
