Fan Fest News

News for Fans, By Fans!

‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ Reboot Uncertain As Writers Abandon Ship

Last October, it was reported by Collider that Disney had hired Deadpool writers Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick to begin penning a reboot of the popular and successful Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. One big difference would be that Johnny Depp would no longer be the face of the franchise as we wave goodbye to Jack Sparrow… sorry, Captain Jack Sparrow.

Although, there seems to be trouble at sea as Deadline have reported that both Reese and Wernick have abandoned ship.

According to Disney’s production chief, Sean Bailey, the screenwriters were hoping to make “Pirates punk rock again” and give the franchise a much-needed “kick in the pants”. While Dead Men Tell No Tales made a respectable $794 million at the worldwide box office, many fans felt the franchise had lost its touch, despite bringing back some of the original cast members.

The big question now is whether Disney will hunt for new writers or hide the project deep inside Davy Jones’ Locker.

Financially, the franchise has been incredibly successful, however, the latest installment did see a drop in the worldwide box office. Perhaps this was an indication of the franchise’s fatigue. Having said that, the franchise has definitely fluctuated over the years, with On Stranger Tides almost beating Dead Man’s Chest at the global box office. So it is difficult to tell whether a reboot would be financially successful, Disney seem to think so.

Personally, I am done with Pirates. My interest sailed away after On Stranger Tides which just didn’t feel the same. To me, the franchise is a trilogy. Now I know many didn’t particularly enjoy At World’s End but I absolutely loved it- although it is by no means better than Dead Man’s Chest. The 2nd film really is the peak of the franchise, not only were the visuals groundbreaking, particularly for Bill Nighy’s Davy Jones, but it struck gold by just being a massive amount of fun for all audiences.

The Pirates are tired. Let the franchise lay low in Tortuga for a while, and then bring it back in 5 or 10 years time with new characters and fresh ideas that could explore the world of piracy in a new and exciting way.

What do you think about this news? Do you want to see more Pirate films or should Disney let the franchise rest at the bottom of the sea? Let us know in the comments below.