POTC4 is different. I think that sums it up. It's less serious, I guess? Superficial consequences and more fantasy related than the previous films. I mean, the three first didn't future magic beyond the cur- actually, never mind that bit about more fantasy related. The fourth film is cramped with supernatural, though. From Blackbeard's magic to the fountain of youth. There's more comedy than the other films, and less action. I also feel Jack Sparrow has lost some character, maybe Johnny Depp is tired of playing him. On the other hand, Barbossa has a far more developed character this time around, though a little bit far from, uh, let's call it the original character. I might be hating, but Penélope Cruz scarcely makes up for Keira Knightley's absence, and Stephen Graham even less of a worthy replacement (not as in same character depicted by new actor) for Orlando Bloom. I also felt Ian McShane did a weak performance and Blackbeard seemed much less intimidating than I would've expected - instead, he's a pirate magus with a sense of humour and a pretend-to-be-evil attitude. All in all, I feel POTC4 was even more aimed at the younger crowd than the former installations. It's still enjoyable, though, it's not like it's literally bad, it's just not the sequel I was looking for. Either way, you should watch the film if only to see the mermaid scene and lose yourself in the music. Hans Zimmer does not disappoint. Also, there's an exploding lighthouse.
