Almost World's End

Rating: 7/10 (2 June 2007)

In the much awaited appearance by Keith Richards as Jack Sparrow's father Captain Teague, he says to Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp), "It's not about living forever that's the problem, Jacky. It's about living with yourselfforever." That is an awesome line and a touching moment, but like much of "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End" it is woefully out of context. Context is not the strong suit of Director's Gore Verbinski's "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End". Admittedly, I did not see "Pirates 2", and "Pirates 3" is a mess. Granted it is visually spectacular and state-of-the-art stunning, but much like the other third legs of the other summer trilogies "Pirates 3" is running on vapors. Johnny Depp is great as Captain Jack Sparrow. Perhaps, he is the only reason to endure the movie's 2 hours and 47 minutes. The movie is way too long. Depp is supported by amazing actors in this marathon sequel. Keira Knightley is very strong and beautiful as Elizabeth Swann. I think that it is all right for Knightley to add some carbs back into her diet. She impressively pulls off the action hero role. Academy Award Winner Geoffrey Rush is at his treacherous best as Captain Barbossa. In comparison Orlando Bloom is weak as Will Turner. However, Bloom does muster enough charisma to salvage the love story with Knightley. Much of this shipwreck falls squarely on the army of writers Ted Elliott, Terry Rossio, Stuart Beattie, and Jay Wolpert. The sheer mass of writers points to the lack of a single narrative voice, and patched work storytelling. "Pirates 3" will set box office records around the world, but it is disappointing given all the talent involved.
As "Pirates 3" resumes from last time, Barbossa, Turner, and Swann are out to rescue Jack Sparrow from Davy Jones Locker at World's End. They must also all face Davy Jones (Bill Nighy) in a showdown, and the Flying Dutchman's armada commanded by Lord Beckett (Tom Hollander). Will Turner (Bloom) also seeks to free his father from Davy Jones. Davy Jones himself seeks justice from his scorned lover Calypso (Naomie Harris). The 9 pirate Captains reluctantly form an alliance to battle Lord Beckett. And finally, will Elizabeth marry Will before all this is done? Who cares? Even piecing storyline together, the movie is a wild ride and almost impossible to follow. "Pirates 3" also gets very weird. The whole 'stone crabs' indulgence in Davy Jones Locker is completely bizarre. Amidst all the inept chaos, Johnny Depp remains captivating as Jack. Depp masterfully switches between wacky and aloof to compelling hero. But even this grows weary, because ultimately there is no story to tell.
"Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End" will do just fine in terms of box office and business. The movie is entertaining and fun, but it is way too long and really runs on fumes after the first half hour. What is disappointing is that "Pirates 3" wastes the talents of Johnny Depp and Keira Knightley. The trilogy deserved a better finish. If you don't have a compelling need to see the movie wait for "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End" on DVD when you can view using appropriate refrigerator breaks.