Pirates des Caraïbes : La Vengeance de Salazar

The fifth installment of the Pirates-series is by all means a step up from the fourth. In all film-series, when a sequel is released it's mandatory to compare it to the best one - which in this case arguably everyone agrees is the first one. That may be unfair, but it's the reality. Now.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar's Revenge does give us some spectacular moments. The visual effects really is astonishing, and some of the scenes is beyond anything I have ever seen before. That's impressing. But that's not why I like Pirates of the Caribbean. What I expect (hope) from a Pirates-film is elegant and witty dialog, compelling sea- battles and Jack Sparrow on fire. And this last bit I think is the biggest reason why this one fails to deliver.

In my opinion, Johnny Depp has lost his way as captain Jack. And I think that's natural, after all, it's been 13 years since he first portrait the character. He's gotten older and that really shows. This, combined with a really poor script, regarding Jack at least, makes it all fall apart. Half the time he's completely drunk (really drunk, not just usual Jack-tipsy) and half the time he tells bad jokes which really is beneath a genius character like Jack Sparrow.

The film starts on a positive note. I had good hopes that it could go somewhere, but mid- way through the story starts to split up and it didn't really have a good rhythm to it. In addition I think there are a lot of characters that just don't do anything to the story or adds humor or dynamic.

The decision to bring back Orlando Bloom to play Will Turner is fundamentally a good one, but I'm so disappointed with he's involvement in the film. It seems Disney only took him back to promote the film and lure old fans back for more. If he's to be involved, he should have a major role.

Javier Bardem does a good job as villain, but nothing I will remember him by.

All in all, I would say that I am disappointed. I didn't have huge expectations to begin with, but where I thought the film would deliver, it just didn't. Basically it's a film for the technical wizards to show how much they can do in terms of visual effects , and they can do a lot. It's just not what I want.

The writing is very minimalistic, character's are all former shadows of themselves. The young character leads are forgettable and character development feels almost non-existent. The lead female is an advocate for woman's rights it seems..instead of just being a really cool protagonist who 'happens' to be female. The whole cast pretty much runs around doing nothing. Jack's crew (Gibbs in particular) have been reduced to mediocre comedy relief. Quite a few plot holes as well as being historically inaccurate in parts. I did enjoy a few scenes, not enough to warrant a rave review though. :P

I've enjoyed all of the Pirates films but I think it's about time they wrap things up.

After watching with very low expectations to "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales", it is hard to understand the legion of haters that write in IMDb. The film is not a masterpiece but is funny, entertaining, with great cast, special effects, screenplay and story. Johnny Depp performs the wolf, drunken and smart Captain Jack Sparrow in the usual funny way. Cinema lovers of fantasy-adventure genre must ignore the bad reviews and question what this kind of people that writes that the movie is not good like to see or if they have difficulties to understand a story with many characters. My vote is seven.

Title (Brazil): "Piratas do Caribe: A Vingança de Salazar" ("Pirates of the Caribbean: The Revenge of Salazar")

With poor plotting, inconsistent pacing and a rushed sense of chemistry amongst the new cast Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales exposes the swashbuckling sequel as nothing more than a cash-grab that's as hollow as the ships they occupy.

In the latest installment of the beloved Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, *Dead Men Tell No Tales* sails into uncharted waters, blending nostalgia with fresh energy to deliver a thrilling experience for both die-hard fans and newcomers alike. The story follows Captain Jack Sparrow, played masterfully once more by Johnny Depp, as he confronts his past while being pursued by a vengeful ghost pirate, Captain Salazar, portrayed with chilling intensity by Javier Bardem.

What stands out in this chapter is the film's ability to blend humor with action, all while exploring themes of legacy, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of freedom. The visual spectacle is undeniably stunning; vibrant CGI brings fantastical sea creatures and breathtaking ship battles to life, reminiscent of the franchise's earlier highs while forging its own identity. The cinematography is a treasure in itself, with sweeping shots of lush landscapes and exhilarating chase sequences that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Introducing new characters, particularly Henry Turner (Brenton Thwaites) and Carina Smyth (Kaya Scodelario), the film breathes new life into the series, offering a bridge between the past and future. Their chemistry carries a sense of youthful exuberance that is infectious, allowing for a fresh dynamic without overshadowing the iconic Jack Sparrow.

While some may argue that the film treads familiar ground, it also offers moments of poignancy-exploring the cost of obsession and the bonds that tie families together. The ambitious narrative threads are supported by an engaging script, with moments of wit and a healthy dose of pirate lore that fans have come to love.

*Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales* is a delightful swashbuckling saga that reminds us why we fell in love with the franchise in the first place. With a perfect blend of humor, heart, and high-seas adventure, it's a worthy addition to the series-one that proves old pirates never truly fade away, and that every tale, no matter how twisted, still holds the promise of a new adventure. Set sail, and enjoy the ride!