I've always been of the belief that the Pirates series is made better with it's humor rather than it's drama; after all, it's why all of us look back at the third movie with such disdain. So when I went into the theater to check out "On Stranger Tides", I was worried that this new film would be another melodramatic flop. Much to my pleasant surprise, it wasn't. At least, most of it isn't.
Once the movie started, I was thrown into more of Sparrow's (Johnny Depp) signature silliness, and trust me on this, because I'll dare not spoil the beginning. And for the most part, the movie sticks with that silliness. There is never a dull moment whenever Captain Jack is on screen. Other characters in the movie also show some humor, such as Sparrow's old GF Angelica (Penelope Cruz), who is the daughter of the infamous voodoo pirate Blackbeard (Ian McShane). Also along for the ride is the now-privateer Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush), who is once again competing with Jack, Blackbeard, and also the Spanish crown, in finding the fabled Fountain of Youth.
If this sounds complicated, it's probably because it is. But you won't mind, because you'll probably have loads of fun. There are a lot of sequences involving clever, Indiana Jones-esque treasure hunting, and plenty of cool battles too.
If I had to complain about one thing (and I do have to), it's one minor plot branch involving a mermaid and one of Blackbeard's crewmen. Their romance is interesting, but it detracts from the adventure a bit. I think the film would've been better off if the crewman and mermaid just didn't give each other the "romantic stare" that's become such an overused cliche over the years. After a while, it just becomes a bit boring.
That still shouldn't keep you away from this movie, however. It's a fantastic, fun ride that's well worth the price. Check it out.
Rating: ****
NOTE: I saw this movie in 2-D and not in 3-D. It was easy to tell that some scenes were made for 3-D, but it's still a fun ride in 2-D anyway.
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