Pirates of the Caribbean - On Stranger Tides (Marshall, 2011)

Good ol' Jack sets out for some new adventures. But - beware! - evil is awaiting.

Characterwise, an interesting blend between Indiana Jones, James Bond and Odysseus. Structurally, I felt that the whole thing was lifted from Indiana Jones - showdown in a cave and all. Two or three more things were added to heighten the pace: the mermaid and the rather diffuse back story with Penelope Cruz' character.

The love story between the mermaid and the priest was not very convincing. Why did she save Sparrow? They had barely met. The relationship between Depp and Cruz didn't work in the end, because she ended up being a totally cliched woman - great potential for fantastic dialogue. And Depp seems to be able to deliver - he could be a great comedian.

Ian McShane has fantastic screen presence.

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