Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

For the last eight years, Disney has stepped up its action-adventure game with the “Pirates of the Caribbean” series. This weekend, with the release of the fourth installment of the series, Disney can do no wrong.

“Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” follows Jack Sparrow, the lovingly horrible pirate played by Johnny Depp, as he searches for the fountain of youth. New twists and turns come his way in the form of a possible love interest, played by Penelope Cruz, as well as a formidable foe in Blackbeard, a world renowned pirate played by Ian McShane.

For “Pirates” fans, it’s easy to see the loss of two key actors, Orlando Bloom and Kiera Knightley, as a sign that the series is winding down. The additions of Cruz and McShane, however, prove to be more powerful than ever. Depp plays a strong role and keeps the cast, which once again features Keith Richards and Geoffrey Rush, as strong as ever.

Those who are worried about the loss of the heartthrob Bloom will be pleased to know that isn’t missed in the new movie — the tension between Depp and Cruz provides ample love-interest, but the addition of newcomer Sam Claflin boosts the quality of “Pirates” leading men back up to normalcy.

The series is still strong, and the adrenaline-pumping action in the fourth movie proves that. Once again, the special effects, complete with beautiful but dangerous mermaids, and the scenery makes this a can’t-miss blockbuster.

— Corianne Egan

Director: Rob  Marshall

Run Time: 137 min.

Theater: Cinemark, 5159 Hinkleville Rd, Paducah

Movie is showed in 3-D and standard showings. For show times and more information visit cinemark.com