A DELIGHT

Rating: 8/10 (31 July 2003)

Just saw it last night and I've got to say, what a fun movie! Lots of humor and adventure, an interesting (if at times overly-convoluted) plot, and an over-the-top performance by Johnny Depp, who unquestionably carries the film. I have heard that Depp consciously modeled his performance on Keith Richards, remarking that pirates were the rock stars of their day. Well, it works like gangbusters! The support is good too, though nowhere near Depp's level. And the female lead is certainly easy on the eyes. The special effects, particularly as regards the ghost pirates, are good as well. Overall, this is the kind of film you can just sit back and enjoy, without having to think too much if at all. And well worth the time and money at a first-run theater. Hell, I had so much fun watching it that I didn't even mind the blatant Disney commercialism underlying the venture...