Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
Starring: Johnny Depp, Penelope Cruz, Ian McShane, Geoffrey Rush
Director: Rob Marshall
Rating: Film: 2/5
Blu ray: 2/5
Who would have thought back in 2003 when Jack Sparrow first minced across the deck of the Black Pearl that he’d be starting one of the most successful franchises in the history of Disney. Now, the fourth film comes to Blu-ray, but does Jack still have the same pull after all these adventures.
On Stranger Tides sees Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) on a quest to the fountain of youth. But he’s not on his own in this endeavour, with old nemesis Barbosa (now in the employ of the Royal Navy), a group of Spaniards and the devious and dastardly Blackbeard and his daughter Angelica (Ian McShane and Penelope Cruz) all striving to get there first.
Despite being the shortest of the Pirates films, On Stranger Tides still feels at least half an hour too long. Johnny Depp’s charms can only go so far, and with very little offered by the new supporting cast, the picture falls far short of the franchise’s fantastic opener.
While this may not plumb the depths of the third film, On Stranger Tides is simply dull. An uninspiring story, plodding pacing and some really dull characters just add up to make this a lacklustre inclusion to the franchise.
The film itself may have several shortcomings, but the picture and audio quality on this Blu ray do not. Both are crystal clear and really showcase the talents of Blu ray. The trouble is that the rest of the disc cannot live up to this very high standard.
To describe the extras available as meagre would be an understatement. With only a blooper reel, director commentary and a couple of shameless cross-promotions on hand, it makes for an extremely disappointing package.
The picture and audio quality may be fantastic, and make Blu ray the definitive option, but the uninspiring film and sparsity of special features makes this one for Pirates die-hards only.
FemaleFirst Cameron Smith