Pirates of the Caribbean movies have gained immense popularity over the years, and with the possibility of a new addition to the franchise, fans are eager to revisit the series. But where should you start to watch the films in chronological order?
Although the franchise originated from a Disney Parks attraction, it skyrocketed in 2003 with the release of The Curse of the Black Pearl. Starring renowned actors such as Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightley, the film introduced the unforgettable character of Captain Jack Sparrow, portrayed by Johnny Depp. With its captivating storyline and impressive cast, Pirates of the Caribbean became a global sensation. Since then, the franchise has produced multiple films and emerged as one of the highest-grossing franchises, collecting over $4.5 billion at the box office. As discussions of a new film circulate, the franchise's success is expected to continue.
The story revolves around Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann, whose lives are intertwined with cursed pirates and the notorious Jack Sparrow. Their adventures unfold against a backdrop of clashes with the Royal Navy, with Elizabeth's father being the governor. While it may seem logical to start with the first theatrical release, The Curse of the Black Pearl, there is a better place to embark on the Pirates of the Caribbean journey.
The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise consists of a total of five theatrical films since the debut of The Curse of the Black Pearl in 2003. Additionally, in 2011, a live-action short film called Tales of the Code: Wedlocked was included as a special feature in the 15-disc Blu-ray collector's set. Notably, this short film did not have a theatrical release and was exclusively available as part of the collector's edition.
To experience the Pirates of the Caribbean films in chronological order, excluding Tales of the Code: Wedlocked, it is recommended to follow the order of their theatrical releases. While each movie has its own distinct storyline, there are interconnected plot elements that carry over from one film to the next. For instance, the evolving relationship between Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann is a significant narrative thread that gains deeper meaning when the films are viewed in the correct sequence.
In addition to the main film series, there is a lesser-known ten-minute live-action short film called Tales of the Code: Wedlocked. This short film serves as a prequel to the overall series and is inspired by the auction scene in Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean attraction. While not widely known, it is an enjoyable addition to the franchise that fans wouldn't want to overlook. The short film features familiar characters, and in a humorous twist, Jack Sparrow acquires an extravagant hat from an auctioneer after unintentionally involving two barmaids who both believe they are engaged to him.
The introduction of the franchise's central characters begins with Will Turner forming an unlikely alliance with Captain Jack Sparrow when Captain Barbossa's cursed pirates abduct Elizabeth Swann. Motivated by his desire for revenge against Barbossa for stealing his ship, Sparrow and Turner embark on a quest to unravel the puzzling solution to the pirates' curse, with Turner potentially holding the key.
Following their arrest for aiding Sparrow, Turner and Swann are offered amnesty if they retrieve Sparrow's enigmatic compass for Lord Cutler Beckett. As the pursuit to find the Dead Man's Chest and Davy Jones' heart intensifies, Turner, Swann, and Sparrow find themselves cautiously allied once again. Sparrow, driven by the need to locate the chest first and settle his unpaid debt with the villainous Davy Jones, will stop at nothing.
Lord Beckett exerts his dominion over the seas from the imprisoned Flying Dutchman, captained by Davy Jones. Beckett's ultimate goal is to eradicate piracy entirely. Meanwhile, the pirate lords scheme to employ their combined powers and awaken a formidable sea goddess to eliminate Beckett. However, their plan hinges on the involvement of Jack Sparrow. Turner, Swann, and the crew of the Black Pearl join forces with Captain Barbossa in a daring mission to rescue Sparrow from the depths of Davy Jones' locker.
In their quest for the Fountain of Youth, Jack Sparrow becomes entangled with Blackbeard, portrayed by Ian McShane, and his daughter Angelica, played by Penelope Cruz. Racing against time, the trio finds themselves caught in a competition with the Spanish, led by the former pirate Captain Barbossa, who has now become a navy privateer. Notably, this film marks the first installment in the franchise without the presence of Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightley.
Continuing his adventures, Jack Sparrow now sets his sights on locating the Trident of Poseidon. His primary goal is to harness the legendary weapon's power, hoping it will aid him in escaping Captain Armando Salazar and the Spanish Royal Navy, who relentlessly pursue him. Salazar's ultimate intention is to eradicate all pirates, with Jack being his primary target. The Trident of Poseidon possesses the ability to control the seas, including tides and marine creatures, and holds the immense power to break curses.
Fans of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise will be pleased to know that there are future plans for more movies. Following the release of Dead Men Tell No Tales, producer Jerry Bruckheimer confirmed that another film is in development, although specific details have yet to be revealed. Interestingly, Disney had initially expressed intentions to reboot the franchise without Johnny Depp reprising his role as Jack Sparrow. However, there is speculation that they might reconsider and invite Depp back. Additionally, Bruckheimer disclosed in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that there are at least two spin-off films in progress. One of these spin-offs will star Margot Robbie, while the other will feature a younger cast. Exciting times lie ahead for Pirates of the Caribbean enthusiasts.
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