Decent Conclusion - But Still Can't Match "Black Pearl"

Rating: 8/10 (9 June 2007)

"At World's End" provides a decent and enjoyable conclusion to the Pirates saga. I found it to be better than "Dead Man's Chest" in which everything went a bit special-effects-happy, but it still didn't manage to reach the brilliance of the first, "The Curse of the Black Pearl".
It was pleasing to see humanity return after the creature-focused DMC and battle sequences were quite enjoyable and thrilling. Locations were very interesting as well. Once again, Zimmer's score was brilliant and complemented the visual experience well.
The plot, while a little convoluted, intrigued me - I personally enjoyed the plot twists and ambiguity of where each character sat. However, even this began to wear on me, and viewers with less interest in these plot devices are likely to find the film confusing and dissatisfying.
While the execution of special effects was great, it is the creative force behind the decisions that grated against me. The Davy Jones Locker sequence was enjoyable, but after the departure from the barren landscape, the multiple Jacks were distracting and jarring for the progression of the plot. The Calypso scene was similarly disappointing. For a sea goddess to simply be a giant version of her human form was a let-down - where is the fire and water?
Overall, it was enjoyable film, but it's hard to beat the surprising wit and simple adventure the first Pirates had to offer.