Written by Amir Scandar, New Media, DFI

Film: Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
Year: 2011
Director: Rob Marshall
Stars: Johnny Depp, Penélope Cruz, Ian McShane, Geoffrey Rush
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy

Breaking news for all Johnny Depp fans in Doha: Captain Jack Sparrow is back! Based on inspiration from the novel ‘On Stranger Tides’ by Tim Powers, ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides’ is the highly anticipated fourth instalment in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ series, with none other than Captain Jack Sparrow at the helm.

In his newest adventure, Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) and his old friend / nemesis Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush) embark on a shadowy quest to find the magical fountain of youth, which has thus far managed to elude the searching grasp of all others. His journey is fraught with peril, however, which takes a turn for the worst as he discovers that the infamous, legendary pirate Blackbeard (Ian McShane), the pirate all other pirates fear, is looking for it too.

This doesn’t deter Captain Jack Sparrow, who acknowledges his adventure with his usual comedic style, setting off yet again on a dark, dangerous and mysterious journey into the unknown. To emphasise this, there are numerous exciting, imaginative and rather funny action scenes – we wouldn’t expect anything less from ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ – suitably enhanced by the 3D experience, which only heightens the sense of adventure prevalent throughout the film.

Whilst frantically searching for the fountain of youth AND trying to stay one step ahead of Blackbeard, Captain Sparrow also crosses paths with his past love, Angelica (Penelope Cruz). Forced to work together, he is unsure if their love has blossomed once more, or if she’s just an excellent con artist using him to get what she wants – the fountain of youth.

Either way, he has no choice but to work with her, so they combine their skills and knowledge, and continue on their quest. They soon discover that the fountain demands a strict test from whoever asks for its endowment, but will the sacrifice Captain Sparrow has to make for eternal life be too much for him to handle? Well… you’ll just have to watch it and see!

On the whole, ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides’ is a gratifying adventure film that more than matches the previous ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ films in the series. It is great entertainment for the whole family, and children will also be able to enjoy it as there is no direct visual violence or mature physical intimacy – a good choice for your viewing pleasure this weekend!