By Nick Lee
Copy Editor
Johnny Depp’s fifth role as lead actor in “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man Tells No Tale” brings viewers back because of its name and nostalgia, however, ultimately the series seems stretched and repetitive.
“Dead Man Tells No Tale”, directed by Joachim Ronning and Espen Sandberg, came out on May 26 and is the fifth movie of the Pirates of the Caribbean series started in 2003. The movie includes strong lead acting from Johnny Depp and action-sequences, but lacks a strong plot and freshness.
The swashbuckler movie is set five years after the fourth film “On Stranger Tides” and continues to follow the events of Jack Sparrow(Johnny Depp) as he is haunted by the events of his past. The ghost of Captain Armando Salazar(Javier Bardem) seeks revenge after Jack killed him before the events of the very first movie. Jack desperately looks for the trident of Poseidon in order to kill the ghost captain.
While on his journey, Jack encounters Will Turner’s son Henry Turne(Brenton Thwaites) and Captain Barbossa daughter, Carina Barbossa( Kaya Scodelario) who are also looking for the trident for their own personal needs. The trio agrees to work together, sailing the seas, following a map to the treasure while being chased by ghost pirates.
Photos from Dead Man Tells no Tale as well as more info
One negative of the movie is the seemingly repeated storyline and dialogue. One could easily confuse events from different Pirates of the Caribbean movies as they all seem to be quite similar. The lack of unique aspects adds towards a very dry experience.
Link: More info on the cast and movie
Another downside of the movie was the constant plot holes or jumps. Throughout the movie, characters seemed to magically teleport into certain boats or areas without any explanation on how. Despite being called a fantasy, it does not seem plausible for characters to slip past guards and appear in jail cells.
On the other hand, the films fantastic film score, first heard in the original movie “The Curse of the Black Pearl”, sends a wave of nostalgia to most fans reminding them why they bought the ticket in the first place.
Depp’s noteworthy performance does help keep the movie afloat. He continues his wacky and peculiar mannerism which overall adds some charm and powerful emotions for the audiences.
The “Pirates of the Caribbean” series continues to uphold its crazy and hectic fight sequences which help drown out the awful plot. The scenes provide a plethora of entertainment despite its often unrealistic aspects.
Link: Pirates of the Caribbean games and more info
In conclusion, the movie could be compared to the overstretched “Fast and Furious” series and at many times seemed forced. The lack of originality and youth definitely outweighs Johnny Depp’s spectacular performance, action-packed combat scenes, and its lucid soundtrack.
“Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man Tells No Tale” opened on May 26, is rated PG-13 and is playing in theaters nationwide.
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