Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest - 9 stars out of 10

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest - 9 stars out of 10

"Dead Man's Chest" is another strong film in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise.  My criticism of this film is the writers who perhaps did not believe that this film could stand on it's own, often referencing funny moments from the first film as if this sequel depended on it.  I lost count of the number of rum jokes at 5, but this film developed enough funny moments that these running gags were unnecessary.  This film does serve as a good extension from the first as all of the characters are developed to a new level.  Although Bloom's character becomes more annoying as the film progresses, Knightley's character (who I disliked in the first film) gains some depth and humor.  Depp is amazing as the focus of the franchise shifts from Bloom to him and Bill Nighy is amazing as the sinister villain, Davy Jones.  The special effects are incredible as the Kraken pushed the boundaries of realistic CGI monsters while the action sequences (like the extensive 3-man swordfight, one of the coolest fight scenes in any movie) keep pumping adrenaline and seem to never offer a break.  Hans Zimmer outdoes himself with this heroic score, while also creating one of the most intensely haunting themes for the Kraken.  Amidst the exciting and terrifying themes, he also offers whimsical musical moments, such as the circus-like escape from the cages hanging from the bridge.  This is one of the few movies where I truly look forward to sitting through the credits because of Zimmer’s amazing score (my favorite musical moment of the entire movie actually occurs during the credits).  Although this film (nor any other) can match the original, Dead Man's Chest offers a unique story, great action sequences, awesome characters, one of the most unbelievable cliff-hangers that I have ever experienced.