For the fourth time around, Johnny Depp returns to the role that turns him into an iconic fixture in movie history, Captain Jack Sparrow. He's still the same, flippantly flamboyant and drunkenly hysterical character that captured the hearts of fans of all ages years ago.
Among the trilogy, "Curse of the Black Pearl" has always been the most entertaining. The grandiose special effects, sets, costume and makeup were all novelty. The story felt fresh and colorful characters made it an exhilarating, epic adventure.
How does 'On Stranger Tides' stack up? Thankfully, it bears much resemblance to the original 'Curse of the Black Pearl.' Unlike the sequels, dreaded 'Dead Man's Chest' and so-so 'At World's End,' the fun has returned! No longer overbloated, gone are the muddled subplots, unnecessary characters, choppy action sequences and ever-present darkness.
Jack crosses path with a foxy beauty, former lover 'Angelica' (Penelope Cruz). Cruz, initially appearing as Jack's impersonator, makes a notable entry in the Captain Jack Sparrow vs. Captain Jack Sparrow swordfight scene. Angelica happens to be the daughter of the legendary, much feared Pirate Blackbeard (Ian McShane). She forces Jack into joining his father's ship, Queen of Anne's Revenge, so that he could provide direction to reach the eternal spring. After a mutiny, Blackbeard makes his presence known by showing off what his magical sword and voodoo skills could do.
In order to reach the fountain of youth, sailors must sail past a sea of mermaids - murderous mermaids with teeth as sharp as shark and vicious as predators. The mayhem created by these mermaids is impressive. Afterwards they must also find two silver challises, which will need to be filled with a mermaid's tears and water. Among the hostage-turned-crew member is a young preacher (Sam McClaflin), who ends up falling for a captured mermaid, Syrena (Astrid Berges-Frisbey).
With Barbossa and the Spanish soldiers hot on their trail, Captain Jack, Blackbeard, Angelica and crew trek through the lush jungles and into the deep caves, in a race to reach the fountain of youth, culminating in a final clash. Although Barbossa and the Spaniards may have another motive in the pursuit.
With a straightforward story and each character serving a purpose, "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides" is what a pirate movie should be - a swashbuckling adventure at the high seas. The continuance of the rousing score greatly boosts the rambunctious romp. Wait and sit through the credit for a post-closing scene that opens up curious possibilities.