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July 15, 2007
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)
Should I see it?
Yes, but cautiously.



This production is founded in one of the best written scripts to come out of Hollywood in ages. Screenwriters Terry Rossio and Ted Elliott manage a complex plot buttressed by thrilling dialog. This is a great script if you are looking to instruct yourself in how to write for the movies.

The film itself is a fun romp. Johnny Depp steals the show in his now famous performance as the wobbly Captain Jack Sparrow. Bright, exciting and perfectly paced, this film is a great pick if you’re looking for something that will leave you upbeat.


Worldview: This sticky wicket here is the treatment of piracy. In the context of the film, it would seem that pirates are a rebellious but relatively harmless lot. With Jack Sparrow (who casually admits to being a thief, murderer and rapist in the film) shown in such an adoring light this film sells a low bill of goods. Be mindful that the overall point of the film is that doing evil is good and being good is stupid. Note when you watch the film who is the good guy and who is the bad guy. What are the qualities that make them who they are? You will find the film is more than it first appears.


Production Notes: I’ll continue with my gushing over the script for a bit. It is a fantastic work. Forgiving the horrible message, this script, on a technical level, is a marvel. It is perfectly balanced and is thoroughly thought out. If you have the DVD on hand, listen to the screenwriters commentary as the final credits roll. You will get a full version of the backstory* to this piece.

* - A backstory is, in essence, the story that happens before the story you’re viewing has begun. Star Wars would be the backstory to The Empire Strikes Back, is a clumsy example.


Cautions: There’s plenty of comical violence and some undead running around. The film is not littered with offensive acts of sexuality or violence. The core issue to contend with is the message of the film. Again, piracy is a good thing is the effective point of the piece. This selling of evil as good deserves some caution before you view the film.


Other Reviews:
Nehring the Edge
PopMatters
Movie Mom's Review


Johnny Depp Movies:
The Astronaut's Wife (1999)
Blow (2001)
Secret Window (2003)


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posted by Michelle Obama's Left Nut at 1:09 PM




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