entertaining in its own right, but can't hold a candle to the original

Rating: 6/10 (7 July 2006)

Dead Man's chest was, at best, an entertaining wild goose chase. Following the rules of a sequel, it is bigger, brasher, and derivative of the first Pirates of the Caribbean film, Curse of the Black Pearl. The jokes felt (and often were) recycled. Each reference deserved nothing more than a fond chuckle. To psych myself up for the new film, I watched Curse of the Black Pearl again last night, and found that my appreciate for it actually grew with each watching. I do not see this happening with the latest Pirate escapade.
But enough comparisons. As i said, on its own Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest is a satisfying summer blockbuster, with pretty faces, somewhat clever writing, and its fair share of shocks and scares. Based again on the Disney theme park ride (which I hear they're finishing revamping to capitalize on fan's love of the film's story), this one feels more like a ride. That is to say, the plot points are used simply to thrown the characters through various roller-coaster like adventures without any real consequence. No one is ever safe, but then again you never feel that anyone won't make it into the next scene. Maybe its just because I know there will be another sequel, but any genuine concern for the character's well-being or actual investment in the story is missing.
So yes, an enjoyable film, but missing the heart of the original. but you probably knew that already. So catch a matinée, sit back, try not to think too much, and enjoy the movie based on a ride. or don't.