Pirate movies (no I'm not talking about illegal and illegitimate copies of Hollywood churn outs) aren't exactly common, and the desire for them isn't really there either, so why would a studio green light something like this? ... Johnny Depp, that's why. I have always thought of him to be a capable actor, but up until this point, have never really been drawn to watch a movie with him headlining. How I've changed my mind, he is, without a doubt, the best thing in 'Pirates of the Caribbean', and is undeniably superb throughout. His slightly Keith Moon like portrayal of the pirate Captain Jack Sparrow, is endlessly entertaining and the film deserves top marks simply because of that. In addition, even though Depp is at the fore front, the supporting cast (Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightly) are also excellent. The quality doesn't just stop with the cast, oh no, the set pieces, the script, the effects, the music, the direction, the story, it's all wonderfully orchestrated into one family welcoming package, and it is by far the most entertaining and fun movie this summer. Considering the film is derived from a theme park ride, it has made the transition perfectly to the big screen. If you're going to see any film this summer, short of seeing the Matrix Reloaded one more time, this is the one to catch. Superb through and through, make sure you see it, or I'll make you walk the plank.

5/5