Dead Man Lives

Rating: 10/10 (9 July 2006)

Any film student or member of the industry will tell you that a great film relies on 5 things: A great story/writing, great acting, great directing, great editing, and great cinematography. A lot of "greats" I know, but I truly feel this movie captures all of those elements at their best.
The performances were astounding. Funny, dramatic, realistic. Naomie Harris is an astounding surprise, perfectly capturing her accent and releasing it to the audience in a magical way not foreign to the wonderful character she portrays. Mr. Depp is again, enchanting. It seems all the returning actors have perfectly grown into their characters and the new editions are great compliments. This movie is one of the best examples of great character acting in modern times.
There were moments where I was completely wonderstruck by certain camera angels and movements. In a time where most everything has been done in the film industry, that's saying something, not just for the cinematography but for the directing and editing as well.
This movie will undoubtedly be one which movie critics will scorn. It seems that modern day critics should spend more time saving the money they earn from their undeserving jobs, to spend on an education towards the industry they work in, an less time sitting in the theatre guzzling down gallons of soda. If you saw, and like millions of movie goers LIKED the first Pirates movie then you will like this one. There are plenty of nods at the first film (and at the ride for that matter) that will delight anyone with a memory. My main point of advice would be to go see it and form your own opinion.