carmelolia

Joel Schumacher's 1995 entry into the 'Batman' saga feels less like a continuation and more like a colourful, jarring diversion. Gone are the gothic, almost claustrophobic shadows of Gotham City that Tim Burton so masterfully created. In their place, we are given a city that gleams with garish neon and theatricality, a vibrant, almost cartoon-like metropolis that reflects the film's shift in tone.

While this stylistic choice is a bold one, it ultimately serves as a distraction from the film's shallow core. The costumes and set designs are a feast for the eyes, a veritable big-top spectacle that screams comic book panels come to life. Jim Carrey's performance as the Riddler, in particular, leans into this aesthetic, transforming the character into a grating, scenery-chewing spectacle of green spandex and question marks.

However, beneath the vibrant, glossy surface, the film ultimately rings hollow. While the style is undeniable, a certain substance we associate with the best of the 'Batman' graphic novels feels critically absent. The narrative, weighed down by the introduction of both Two-Face and the Riddler, is a mess at times. We are given a series of explosive set pieces and frantic chases, but the emotional core that anchored the previous films is entirely lost in the chaos. With regards to Val Kilmer's portrayal of Batman, his is a more wooden, less psychologically complex figure than his predecessor Michael Keaton in 'Batman' (1989), and his internal struggles are dismissed.

'Batman Forever' is a visually stimulating ride, but once the credits roll, one is left with the sense that it is a beautifully wrapped gift with nothing of real value inside. It is a striking work of pure aesthetic, but it is ultimately a soulless, forgettable spectacle. Despite its flaws, the film is still enjoyable and entertaining, even if it falls short when compared to the best or better 'Batman' films.

'The Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl' is a rollicking adventure that successfully revived the swashbuckling genre with a supernatural twist. Led by a magnificent and eccentric performance from Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow, in what has to be one of the most iconic performances of all time, the film delivers a thrilling and often hilarious high-seas escapade.

The story centres on the cursed crew of the Black Pearl, led by the formidable Captain Barbossa, who are doomed to be living skeletons in the moonlight. Blacksmith Will Turner and Jack Sparrow form an unlikely alliance to rescue Governor's daughter Elizabeth Swann, who has been kidnapped by the pirates. The narrative is a masterclass in pacing, filled with exhilarating sword fights, clever humour, and inventive special effects that hold up remarkably well.

The film's true treasure lies in its characters. Depp's portrayal of Jack Sparrow, a mix of Keith Richards' rock-and-roll swagger and a theatrical flair, is a captivating and instantly iconic creation. Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightley are perfectly cast as the earnest hero and fiery heroine, providing a strong emotional core to the fantasy.

'The Curse of the Black Pearl' is an endlessly re-watchable film that launched a massive franchise, but it remains a standout for its perfect blend of adventure, comedy, and fantasy. It's a testament to the fact that with a great script and a truly memorable performance, you can create a new classic.