“It Really Is Great”: Disney Exec Reaffirms Plan to Shoot Another Pirates of the Caribbean Film

The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, once a swashbuckling juggernaut of the box office, has been adrift since the release of Dead Men Tell No Tales in 2017. While that installment didn’t quite capture the magic of its predecessors, fans of Captain Jack Sparrow and his high-seas adventures can take heart: Disney is officially moving forward with a new Pirates film. During a panel at SXSW 2024, Disney executives confirmed that the beloved franchise will set sail once again, sparking both excitement and curiosity about what’s next for the series.

A Franchise That Defied the Odds

It’s easy to forget just how risky the original Pirates of the Caribbean film was back in 2003. Directed by Gore Verbinski and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, The Curse of the Black Pearl was a $140 million gamble based on a Disneyland theme park ride. At the time, Johnny Depp, though a respected actor, was far from a guaranteed box office draw, known more for his quirky roles in films like Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas than for leading blockbuster franchises. Yet, against all odds, the film became a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $650 million worldwide and launching a series that would span five films and earn billions.

Now, more than two decades after the first film’s release, Disney is ready to revisit the high seas. During the SXSW panel, Disney Entertainment co-chairman Alan Bergman confirmed the studio’s plans, stating, “Look, we’re going to be making another Pirates movie. So it’s just great. It really is great.” While Bergman’s comments were brief, they were enough to reignite excitement—and speculation—about the future of the franchise.

What Will the New Pirates Film Look Like?

The big question on everyone’s mind is: what direction will the new Pirates of the Caribbean film take? Over the years, rumors have swirled about various projects, from a female-led spinoff starring Margot Robbie to a full-blown franchise reboot. Here’s what we know—and what we can speculate—about the upcoming film:

1. The Margot Robbie Spinoff: Dead in the Water?

In 2020, reports surfaced that Margot Robbie was attached to a Pirates spinoff, with Birds of Prey screenwriter Christina Hodson penning the script. However, the status of this project has been murky, with conflicting reports about whether it’s still in development. While Robbie’s star power could breathe new life into the franchise, it’s unclear if this spinoff is still part of Disney’s plans.

2. A Franchise Reboot: Starting Fresh

Another possibility is a complete reboot of the franchise. Johnny Depp, who brought Captain Jack Sparrow to life, is now 61 years old, and his highly publicized legal battles with ex-wife Amber Heard have complicated his relationship with Disney. While producer Jerry Bruckheimer has expressed interest in bringing Depp back, the studio may opt for a fresh start with a new cast and storyline. A reboot could allow Disney to modernize the franchise while introducing a new generation of pirates and adventures.

3. Jack Sparrow’s Return: Fan Service or Franchise Savior?

For many fans, Johnny Depp’s Jack Sparrow is the heart and soul of Pirates of the Caribbean. His eccentric, unpredictable performance defined the series and made it a global phenomenon. While Depp’s return would undoubtedly please fans, it remains to be seen whether Disney is willing to reconcile with the actor and whether his age and the franchise’s need for fresh energy align.

The Challenges Ahead

Reviving a franchise as iconic as Pirates of the Caribbean comes with its share of challenges. The last two films, On Stranger Tides (2011) and Dead Men Tell No Tales (2017), received mixed reviews and saw diminishing returns at the box office. To succeed, the new film will need to recapture the magic of the original trilogy while offering something new and exciting.

One of the key challenges will be balancing nostalgia with innovation. The original films worked because they combined swashbuckling action, supernatural elements, and a healthy dose of humor. The new film will need to honor that formula while avoiding the pitfalls of rehashing old storylines or relying too heavily on fan service.

Additionally, the franchise will need to address the changing landscape of blockbuster cinema. Audiences today crave diverse, inclusive stories and fresh perspectives. A female-led spinoff or a reboot with a more diverse cast could help the franchise stay relevant in a competitive market.

What’s Next for the Franchise?

While details about the new Pirates film remain under wraps, one thing is clear: Disney is committed to keeping the franchise alive. Whether it’s a spinoff, a reboot, or a continuation of the original series, the studio has a wealth of possibilities to explore.

Jerry Bruckheimer, who has been the driving force behind the franchise since its inception, remains involved, ensuring that the new film will stay true to the spirit of the original. As for Johnny Depp, his return remains a question mark, but his iconic portrayal of Jack Sparrow will undoubtedly cast a long shadow over any new iteration of the series.

Conclusion: A New Adventure on the Horizon

The confirmation of a new Pirates of the Caribbean film is exciting news for fans who have been waiting years for another adventure on the high seas. While the franchise faces challenges in reinventing itself for a new era, the potential for fresh stories, new characters, and thrilling action is immense.

As Disney sets its course for the next chapter of Pirates of the Caribbean, one thing is certain: the legacy of Captain Jack Sparrow and the world he inhabits will continue to captivate audiences for years to come. Whether it’s a nostalgic return to familiar waters or a bold new direction, the next Pirates film promises to be an adventure worth waiting for.

In the meantime, fans can relive the original films, now streaming on Disney+. Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate’s life awaits!