Back to it's Best

Rating: 8/10 (2 June 2017)

The fifth installment in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise sees Captain Jack back chasing after the Treasure of Poseidon in a quest which is very likable and catching. Many reviews have been crucifying this film for numerous aspects; however there is a lot to love. The story-line is very structured to such an extent that it is similar to the original film in the sense everything is set up for a reason. This is something the fourth film seemed to lack and saw it head in one direction without much context. Nevertheless, the adventure aspects are great and so too are the snaps of humor seen throughout the film, which are somewhat less than what was seen in the last film which was perceived to be more a comedy. The CGI aspects of the film are also very effective and entertaining, with bits and pieces of the human body missing from each ghost pirate character, as well as the action sequences to be very entertaining. The action sequences are quite thrilling and the acting is fine, boosted by a star performance from Geoffrey Rush portraying Captain Barbossa, which is now a wealthy pirate at the head of his very own fleet.
Returning aspects of the film also lead for it to be very entertaining. Both Orlando Bloom and Keira Kightley return, although they are in the film for two or so minutes, they create a grasping and cliff-hanger like effect to the film. Also, by introducing their son Henry Turner gives an enhanced impact making both aspects of these past characters to be rolled into one. The plots twist of having Carina turning out to be Barbossa's daughter also created an emotional effect that finishes the movie off with Geoffrey Rush sacrificing himself for his daughter. Although a heartfelt moment, the death of one of the characters was needed, as most of the characters have followed all 5 movies and without it, it would have been dragging the franchise on.
The only criticisms of this film are that the directional choices, specifically the choice of camera shots are sometimes poor, allowing viewers not to get the full extent of what is happening and not being able to have the desired impact. The only other problem is that of Johnny Depp's characterization of Captain Jack Sparrow. In the past films we've all know the character of Jack Sparrow to be cunning and witty along with often being partially drunk. However, in this film the trickery and wittiness were not as prominent as what they have been in the past. The acting on Depp's behalf led to Jack Sparrow to act more than just a little drunk, more so being very drunk for most of the film. Nevertheless, as this 5th installment is 6 years since the last and 14 from the first of course Depp is going to lose some touch with the character, in regards to how he is played and portrayed.
All in all this film has taken us back to the origins of what really a pirate's movie is all about, the adventure. By-passing some minor problems this film is very likable and is a step up from the fourth movie which was probably needed.