Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl

The first film in this swashbuckling series, an unexpected big hit, is one of the most exciting and exhilarating films of the 2000s. Captain Jack Sparrow is played by Johnny Depp, a once-fierce pirate who has been reduced to a ghost of his former self when his old crew mutinied and stole his ship, The Black Pearl. After being imprisoned at a harbor for attempting to steal a ship, he is given another chance at adventure and the retaking of his ship. Will Turner, played by Orlando Bloom, breaks him free in exchange for his assistance in rescuing the lovely Elizabeth Swann, played by Keira Knightley, who was kidnapped on The Black Pearl.

Pirates of the Caribbean was produced as a cheap fluff adventure picture, loosely based on an attraction at Walt Disney World, and while it preserved this light vibe, it developed into an immense success that generated a three sequel series that smashed box office records.

The film's popularity is largely due to Johnny Depp's scene-stealing performance as the sneaky buccaneer, for which he received an Oscar nomination. However, there is plenty to say about the remainder of the picture, including numerous great performances and the film's role in bringing back less-serious action entertainment in Hollywood.

Detailed information:

Director: Gore Verbinski
Stars: Johnny Depp, Geoffrey Rush, Orlando Bloom

Running time: 143 minutes

Release dates: June 28, 2003