Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest Review

Overall Rating

It's fun, harmless entertainment

Story line a little contrived and laboured

OK, the general concensus about this film seems to be disappointment, and I can understand why. The first Pirates film was a breath of fresh air, combining a great storyline, brilliant one-liners and outstanding special effects. Having watched it several times on DVD I was really excited about the sequel.

My initial reaction when leaving the cinema was...could have been better. The main failing was the relatively slow-moving storyline, the way certain characters were shoe-horned in and the feeling that it was made as 'the one in the middle' (the last 10 minutes only serving to set up the start of the next film). The 'killing off' of Captain Jack also failed to have the desired impact as it's clear that they wouldn't leave him out of the last film.

BUT...having got the DVD at Christmas and watched it 3 or 4 times since, I can honestly say my enjoyment of the film has increased with each viewing. Every time I watch it I notice something new, such as a subtle joke, the expert swordsmanship or the little details in the animation of the clams on Davy Jones' ship. What I say to the critics is this...give it a chance to grow on you, forget the dodgy storyline and just enjoy it for what it is, a bit of fun for a Sunday afternoon. It certainly hasn't put me off seeing the last film. I actually think I'll enjoy no. 3 more because I'm not expecting to be blown away by the first visit.