Screen Rant » pirates of the Caribbean 4

Rob Marshall Confirmed To Direct Pirates of the Caribbean 4

Ross Miller — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:34:15 +0000

We got word at the end of July this year that Pirates of the Caribbean 4 may have found its director in Rob Marshall (Chicago, Nine). Since then we’ve found out the name of the film ( On Stranger Tides); what it’s probably going to be about; that it’s going to be based on a book; and even that Johnny Depp may not be coming back (although Disney promised we’d see him in the fourth one, at least).

However, now we get the news that Marshall is confirmed to be directing Pirates of the Caribbean 4. According to a tipster over at AICN who attended a DGA screening of Marshall’s latest, Nine, Marshall replied to a question about what his next project would be by name-dropping Pirates of the Caribbean. Here’s what he said:

“‘Y’know, it’s something that I was offered and never in the world thought I would do but then I was like ‘why not?’… I’m doing ‘ Pirates of the Caribbean….”

So even though it was rumored, and looked pretty damn likely back this summer, it’s still nice to hear confirmation come from the Marshall himself. On top of that, another nice little piece of info that might be of interest to you Captain Jack Sparrow/Depp fans out there is that Marshall said he, “had a wonderful meeting [with Depp] and that they’re both excited to work together.”

Pirates of the Caribbean 4 is to be based on a 22-year-old book also called “On Stranger Tides” by author Tim Powers, using the plot of the search for the Fountain of Youth. It’s a very fitting thing to build a story around for a Pirates movie, and with Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightley unlikely to be back for the fourth (we’re slightly more confident about Knightley not returning), it means they can use that plot to concentrate on Captain Jack and perhaps Captain Barbossa, who IMO are the two best characters in the franchise.

As for Marshall, I’m not going to lie and say it’s an excellent choice just for the hell of it. He’s most definitely not the first name I would think of to pick up the reigns after Gore Verbinski left. His theatrical directing debut back in 2002 was the multi-Oscar winning Chicago, and he has upcoming the Daniel-Day Lewis, Penelope Cruz and Nicole Kidman-starring Nine (also a musical) – neither film is exactly overflowing with hidden treasure or drunken pirates (or maybe the latter IS - time will tell …)

However, as I said when he was rumored back in July, it’s refreshing to see Disney think outside of the box and get a director who you wouldn’t immediately think of (although I’m sure they’ve pondered asking Steven Spielberg at one point). I really hope Marshall can bring something new to the table and drag this franchise out of the confusing and uninspired pit it wallowed in with the second and third movies.

What do you think of Marshall apparently being the one to definitely direct Pirates of the Caribbean 4? Would he be your first choice or have you got a long list of other directors before you’d get to him?

Pirates of the Caribbean 4: On Stranger Tides is supposedly to start shooting next Spring, and has a general release date set of Summer 2011.

Source: AICN (thanks to /Film)

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Bruckheimer Talks Pirates of the Caribbean 4

Anthony Ocasio — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 20:35:49 +0000

Last week, Steve “Frosty” Weintraub over at Collider ventured over to über-producer Jerry Bruckheimer’s office in Santa Monica to get an early look at the Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time trailer. After viewing the trailer, Weintraub ran into Bruckheimer and took the time to ask him some questions regarding the upcoming fourth addition to the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, entitled, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.

The three questions Weintraub chose to ask were:

What’s up with the script?
When are they going to shoot the film?
Did the regime change at Disney cause any problems?

Bruckheimer’s responses were that they’ve got a script for the film (especially if the reports are true that it’s based on a book); they’re looking to start filming next year and that the “resignation” of Walt Disney Studios chairman Dick Cook will not affect the production of the film in the slightest. Weintraub also notes that the way Bruckheimer was speaking to him about the project, it looks as if the previous reports of the plot being the search for the fountain of youth are true.

While I wouldn’t consider Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End as entertaining as the previous two, I would happily welcome another installment. My only concern is that maybe Jerry Bruckheimer has too many things on his plate. While I’m sure he has an extremely large plate, if you look at what he’s got going on right now you start to wonder how much influence he really has on things.

As of now, Bruckheimer has 7 television series on the air, 2 films completed and ready for release and 20 projects “in-development” including the fourth Pirates of the Caribbean and the third National Treasure film. That doesn’t exactly leave you much time for a hands-on approach.

Still, say what you will about his films and television series, JB definitely earns his money.

YEEEEAAAAAHHHHH!

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides has a tentative release date of Summer 2011.

Source: Collider

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Pirates of the Caribbean 4 Based On A Book After All [Updated]

Ross Miller — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:09:39 +0000

[Update: Got some new quotes and more info on this subject]

If you’ve been keeping up with the news about the upcoming fourth Pirates of the Caribbean movie, you’ll probably be aware of the fact that it’s been given the subtitle of “On Stranger Tides.” As we reported a little under a month ago, the title is exactly the same as a pirate book by Tim Powers from 22 years ago, which is about the Fountain of Youth (Pirates 4’s reported plot hook) and which also contains a pirate character called Jack.

It seemed like TOO much of a wild coincidence for Disney not to have had based their Pirates 4 story on Powers’ book and we now learn, from the author himself, that the film IS based on his book after all. What a HUGE surprise… (Sarcasm alert!)

After Depp appeared in character as Captain Jack Sparrow at the Disney’s D23 Expo, and the On Stranger Tides subtitle was revealed (along with a title card featuring it), Powers’ e-mail inbox suddenly got flooded by messages from surprised friends and fans, along with legal advice in case he needed to know how to sue…

But Powers has finally revealed to the LATimes that he has been in cahoots with Disney for quite a while now, and notes how he wasn’t able to talk about it until now. Here’s what he had to say:

“I was still — as far as I understood — not free to talk about it… Then about a week ago my agent wrote and said, ‘You’re now able to say that in fact Disney did option the book.’ That happened a while ago, it’ll be three years in April.”

Powers also went on to reveal his thoughts on how Disney will “adapt” his book i.e. just how much they will use. Surprisingly (or unsurprisingly, depending on how you look at it) he doesn’t think they’ll borrow extensively, not least because the main characters (despite sharing one name) don’t “overlap.”

“I’ve watched all the movies several times, of course, and I think the clear thing they would use is the trip to the Fountain of Youth… My main character doesn’t overlap with Jack Sparrow at all [in personality or circumstance]; they’re totally different characters. I suppose they might overlap the Geoffrey Rush character Barbossa and Blackbeard. The only thing I feel certain they will hold on to is the Fountain of Youth since they telegraphed that at the end of the last movie.”

“I don’t know if it’s proper to say [the movie is] based on [my book] but there are enough common elements to think that the book had to be optioned to us to reasonably proceed along that story line.”

For the rest of what Powers had to say – including on the whole “Depp’s loss of enthusiasm after Dick Cook’s departure as Chairman of Disney” thing – you can head over to LATimes’ Hero Complex.

As I said, I don’t think it comes to a surprise to anyone that the similarities – notably the use of the name – between Pirates of the Caribbean 4 and the Powers book aren’t a coincidence. It’s always nice to get confirmation on this sort of thing, though it’s interesting that Disney has turned to a pre-established source to find a story for their fourth installment in a franchise that will make money no matter WHAT the story…

What do you think about Pirates of the Caribbean 4 being based off of Tim Powers’ On Stranger Tides book? Do you think it’s a good idea that Disney is basing their story on a pre-established one? Have you read Powers’ book, and if so how much of it do you think will be adapted for Pirates 4?

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides is supposed to start filming next Spring, and has a general release date of Summer 2011.

Sources: LATimes (Hero Complex) (thanks to Joblo)

Update Source: Empire

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Disney Promises Depp In Pirates 4

Ross Miller — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:21:31 +0000

Yesterday we posted that Pirates of the Caribbean star Johnny Depp may not be coming back after the upcoming Pirates 4. A tip from Cinemablend said that even if Depp came back for Pirates 4 (and it was an “if” at the time), it would be his last performance as Captain Jack Sparrow within the successful Pirates franchise.

After Disney Chairman Dick Cook stepped down from his position recently, Depp gave some rather cryptic comments on his returning to the Pirates franchise, as he had a good working relationship with Cook. Depp said that his enthusiasm for the franchise had wavered since Cook stepped down, and this put doubt in fans’ minds over whether we would see him reprise his famous pirate role. However, today we get word – again from Cinemablend – that Disney has promised that Depp will once again play Captain Jack in the fourth movie, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.

Cinemablend say they’ve spoken with a Disney rep who assures them that Depp’s commitment to Pirates 4 has not wavered one bit (I assume the rep means in lieu of Cook’s departure). As for any movies following the upcoming fourth, the rep couldn’t speak on them – not “couldn’t” as in “not allowed to,” but rather “couldn’t” as in “not able to because he doesn’t know.” Apparently nothing beyond On Stranger Tides has been greenlit yet, and it would be rather silly for any reps to publicly speculate at this point. As for the possibility of a new character being brought in to replace Captain Jack, the rep says they’re not even thinking about that at this point.

Cinemablend reminds us that this should all be classified as rumors, as no official press releases have been put out to officially let us know what’s going on. But the info sounds believable to me, and I suspect we will see Depp ultimate play Captain Jack at least one more time in Pirates 4. It’ll be interesting to see what happens beyond that point, though: Will Depp come back for 5 and 6? If not, will Disney recast him or bring in a new character altogether? Until we get some solid confirmations, all we can do is speculate…

Are you glad that Depp is apparently coming back for Pirates 4? Obviously the best situation for the good of the franchise is that he does more after that, but what would you like to see happen if Depp walked away after the next installment?

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides is supposed to start filming next Spring, and has a general release date of Summer 2011.

Source: Cinemablend

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Pirates 4 To Be The Last For Johnny Depp? [Updated]

Ross Miller — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:52:46 +0000

We recently reported on the news that Disney Chairman Dick Cook had stepped down from his position at the company after many years, with the rumors for his departure ranging from voluntary to forced out by Disney CEO Bob Iger, who may have been unhappy with Cook’s (and the company’s) box office performance as of late. Whatever the reason, Pirates of the Caribbean star Johnny Depp has expressed his dissatisfaction and disappointment at the news, with it putting a damper on his enthusiasm for Pirates of the Caribbean 4: On Stranger Tides.

Depp’s starring in Pirates 4 was brought into question, which led to further questions asking if there will even BE a Pirates 4 if Depp isn’t in it. Well, recently word (that, for some reason, flew under our radar around these parts) has been floating around by way of an exclusive tip over at Cinemablend that even if Depp DOES come back for a fourth Pirates movie, it’ll be his last, meaning he won’t stick around for Pirates 5 or 6.

UPDATE: Apparently Disney has promised that Depp will be back for the fourth Pirates of the Caribbean movie. Head here for details.

There’s been rumors going around that Pirates 4 is being planned to kick off a new trilogy, which probably means they have some sort of plan for what they want to do with 5 and 6. And I bet you those plans (even if they’re only plans, or even ideas at the moment) included Depp as Captain Jack. They’re probably already in the midst of drawing up a hefty check to pay Depp’s fee for doing Pirates 4, but beyond that, going by Cinemablend’s tip, they’ll have to pay him even MORE if he’s to do more installments after that.

So let’s just imagine for a minute that Pirates 4 is Depp’s last time playing Captain Jack Sparrow – what would that mean for the character and the franchise? I think if Depp turned his sights elsewhere (and let’s face it, he’ll get work no matter what), Disney would have a serious problem on their hands. Would they recast Captain Jack? I don’t think fans of the series would have any of that, as I think you’ll agree the essence of the character is brought to the table by Depp. Will they not include Captain Jack and bring in a new character that’ll hopefully capture the hearts of the Pirates franchise’s avid fans (something Cinemablend’s tip hints at)? I really don’t think the fans would have any of THAT, either.

What would Pirates of the Caribbean be without Johnny Depp?

Looking at the extreme case scenario – will there even BE a Pirates 5 and 6 if Depp isn’t in the picture? I think Disney would have a go at trying to make it work, and I think people would still end up seeing them because, hey, it’s Pirates of the Caribbean, one of the biggest (read: most profitable) film franchises around. Having said that, Depp’s Captain Jack Sparrow is the absolute draw of the franchise, and it would be SORELY lacking without him. To be honest, I wouldn’t care one iota about a Pirates of the Caribbean if he wasn’t in it. I’m sorry, but he’s about the only thing that kept me interested throughout the messes that were Dead Man’s Chest and At World’s End. Unless the On Stranger Tides rumored director, Rob Marshall, stays on for 5 and 6 and turns them into the Citizen Kanes of pirate movies, I won’t be interested when the time comes.

What’s your opinion on Depp’s uncertain Pirates of the Caribbean future? Do you think he’ll come back for Pirates 4 and then 5 and 6 after that? If he didn’t, what do you think Disney would do with the character and the franchise?

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides is supposed to start filming next Spring, and has a general release date of Summer 2011.

Source: Cinemablend

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Disney’s Chairman Steps Down = No Johnny Depp In Pirates 4?

Ross Miller — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 19:59:58 +0000

It was announced recently that Dick Cook, the chairman of Walt Disney studios for 38 years, has stepped down from his position, a move reportedly caused by a rough financial year. Cook released a statement proclaiming his love for every minute of working at Disney, having risen from monorail and steam train operator to chairman.

Even though Cook’s statement suggests he left entirely on his own terms, CEO Bob Iger had recently expressed his disappointment in the studio’s (Cook’s?) box office performance this year, with the likes of Race to Witch Mountain and Bedtime Stories not doing as well as they’d hoped. However, a report from the LA Times yesterday says that Cook and Iger have had some trouble that extends beyond box office results. Igor emphasizes collaboration and seeks, “new ways of doing business,” whereas Cook supposedly is a traditionalist. You can read the full story regarding this sort of thing over at the LA Times.

No matter the reason Cook stepped down (no successor has been appointed by Disney as of yet, FYI), the fact remains he was a well liked and respected man in the business, not least by Pirates of the Caribbean star, Johnny Depp. The actor has said that he’s, “shocked and very sad,” at Cook’s departure, and said, “I didn’t see this coming. There was no reason to see this coming.” Depp called him, “instantly trustworthy,” saying that, “you don’t generally meet people at the studios you trust. He’s a rare beast.”

So Depp thought very highly of Cook and apparently doesn’t agree with him being gone… this leads to the question of Depp’s involvement with Pirates of the Caribbean 4. Depp notes that not only was Cook the reason he worked with Disney in the first place, but Cook was also the only one at the studio who backed his style of portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow (the gold teeth, the “drunken” movement, the stuff in his hair etc.), whilst others were, “less enthusiastic,” to say the least (I bet they changed their tune when the movie, and the character, became a colossal hit). Depp says Cook was, “completely supportive,” of him when other studio execs were, “opposed to my body language.”

With regards to Pirates 4, Depp says that he has a potential deal in place that, “depends on how good the script is.” However, the star’s passion for the fourth in the franchise has been severally dampened by Cook’s departure – “There’s a fissure, a crack in my enthusiasm at the moment… It was all born in that office.”

So does Depp’s drop in enthusiasm for Pirates 4 mean he won’t sign a deal with Disney? Well, anything’s possible (I think Disney needs Depp a lot more than he needs them), but I seriously doubt that Depp won’t do another. He’s the absolute draw of the franchise, and thus Disney will do EVERYTHING they can to get him on-board. I’m betting if Depp went to them with a record-breaking price tag, the studio would just give him it (I’m not saying he will, but if he did…).

I would just chalk Depp’s drop in passion as an immediate result of Cook’s departure from Disney after almost 40 years, and I think that when the dust settles, he will ultimately sign on for another Pirates of the Caribbean. Without him, the box office potential of another would be in question.

What do you think about Cook stepping down as Disney’s chairman after so long? Do you think (based on Depp’s reaction) that we could see a Pirates 4 without Captain Jack? Or is this just a knee-jerk reaction on Depp’s part, and he’ll ultimately reprise the popular pirate role?

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides is supposed to start filming in Spring 2010, and has a general release date of Summer 2011.

Sources: LATimes, Joblo and Variety

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Title Revealed For Pirates of the Caribbean 4

Ross Miller — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 04:52:40 +0000

We recently found out the supposed plot for the fourth installment in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, which, according to Hollywood Elsewhere, would feature Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) and Co. searching for the infamous Fountain of Youth. It’s not been officially announced but it seems plausible, and at this point we have no reason to think that it’s false.

So with that “semi-confirmed” plot (whatever that means) in mind, you could be forgiven for assuming Pirates 4 would be titled something akin to, “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Search For the Fountain of Youth” or simply “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Fountain of Youth.” But no, at the D23 Disney Fan Expo, a logo/banner for the fourth Pirates movie was unveiled and it revealed the name and the release date: Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides has a (general) release date of Summer 2011.

On Stranger Tides, huh? I wonder just what that could mean. Since no plot details were revealed at the Disney Expo, that just leaves us all to speculate as to what the subtitle could be referring to. Could it mean Captain Jack Sparrow and Co. traveling to unknown, uncharted seas to find the Fountain of Youth? Do we take “Stranger” as in the characters don’t know what the “Tides” are? Or could it be something that will only make sense once you see the movie, as was the case with this summer’s Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince?

Erik Davis from Cinematical came across a pirate book by the same name as the newly assigned Pirates 4 subtitle. As Erik asks on Twitter – “Did Disney swipe the title from this book for Pirates 4?” or, “are they adapting it?” The Tim Powers written book is available on Amazon, here is the synopsis from it:

“Puppeteer John Chandagnac, bound for Jamaica to recover stolen money from his uncle, becomes Jack Shandy after pirates attack his ship and force him to join their crew. Shandy’s struggle to accept his new life grounds the story for readers, even as Blackbeard and vodun magicians whisk everyone away to dreamlike lands where the Fountain of Youth itself awaits. The chaotic sea battles sing, though at times key events happen so quickly that they get lost in the shuffle as Jack tries to comprehend where he’s going and what’s at stake.”

"On Stranger Tides" by Tim Powers

Hold on a minute: the Fountain of Youth (with a main character called Jack)? Isn’t that what Pirates of the Caribbean 4 is supposed to be about? I find it hard to believe that Disney isn’t aware of the existence of Powers’ book, and aren’t using as at least an inspiration, if not a full on basis for adaptation, like Cinematical says. That’s an interesting idea to ponder – four movies into a franchise looking elsewhere for material to base your story off of. If true, it could work tremendously in the film/franchise’s favor or it could seriously backfire. I’ll leave it to you to give your thoughts on which way it would go.

What do you think of the title of the fourth Pirates movie? Do you think the On Stranger Tides book is an inspiration/source for adaptation for Disney?

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides has Chicago director, Rob Marshall, rumored to be directing, with Johnny Depp being the only cast member we know of so far who is definitely returning (Keira Knightley has previously said no to returning). Production is supposed to start next Spring and is (as mentioned) set to be released in the summer of 2011.

Sources: Cinematical and /Film

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Pirates of the Caribbean 4 Has a Plot

Kofi Outlaw — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 16:23:02 +0000

Unlike the last two Pirates of the Caribbean installments, it seems that the upcoming Pirates of Caribbean 4 is going to have a plot (zing!). Hollywood Elsewhere has supposedly confirmed the premise of the next Pirates film, which is said to be “locked in” at this point.

And, from the sound of it, the film could be good – or we could just as easily end up with another Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. Check out the rumored premise for the film and you’ll see exactly what I mean by that statement.

Pirates 4 will once again center on Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) and Co., this time as they search for the fabled Fountain of Youth. At the same time, a “Captain Nemo” style villain outfitted with advanced (for pirate times) technology tries to beat them to the punch.

Hollywood Elsewhere has made the early claim that this new villain adds a sort of steampunk element to the story. Frankly, after all the pirates/magic/monsters nonsense of The Dead Man’s Chest and At World’s End, I would welcome a little steampunk tech into the Pirates universe. However, like I said up top, that kind of angle – old world meets new – leaves the film vulnerable to Crystal Skull syndrome. And Pirates of the Caribbean has already jumped so far over the shark as is…

Add to all this one other curious omen: if George Lucas had had his way early on, Indy 4 would’ve centered on a Fountain of Youth plot. [Shudder]

Still, the first Pirates film, Curse of the Black Pearl, was a pretty enjoyable movie, in no small part because it was a standalone (read: complete and uncomplicated) story that was well told and hit all the right notes – thrilling action, good characters, good balance of comedy and some cool f/x. It really was an adventure in the same vein of Indiana Jones, and how rare and precious has THAT experience become at the movies?

If the filmmakers don’t try to overextend themselves, Pirates of the Caribbean 4 could – I’m saying COULD – reclaim some of its lost glory. Did I mention that Keira Knightley probably won’t be back? Knew that would make you happy .

We reported that Pirates of the Caribbean 4 could starting shooting next year. Far as I know that is still the case. Chicago director Rob Marshall is rumored to be directing.

Source: Hollywood Elsewhere

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Pirates of the Caribbean 4 May Have Its Director!

Ross Miller — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 22:41:04 +0000

Although nothing is confirmed as of yet, Variety is reporting that Chicago director, Rob Marshall, is on the verge of being signed by Disney to direct Pirates of the Caribbean 4. This would seriously further talk of the project moving into production next year, possibly even filming by April.

Variety says that Disney and mega-producer Jerry Bruckheimer have been meeting with various different directors over the past few weeks. They’re evidently trying to speed things up to get Pirates 4 made with Johnny Depp back as Captain Jack Sparrow before he’s to star in The Lone Ranger for the studio.

Sources are saying that it’s looking very likely that Marshall will come on-board as the director of the fourth installment in the successful Pirates franchise. These sources are also saying that the studio has started casting new characters that will appear in the fourth film.

The first three Pirates movies had Gore Verbinski at the helm, but it was announced back in April that he would no longer be directing any more of the franchise’s movies. He instead is off to work on his Bioshock video game adaptation.

If Marshall does get the Pirates 4 directing gig, it certainly will be a change of genre for him. He made his theatrically released directing debut back in 2004 with the musical film, Chicago (he directed the TV movie Annie before that), and has just finished filming his latest one, Nine, which stars Daniel Day-Lewis, Marion Cotillard, Penelope Cruz and Nicole Kidman. That movie is due out in late November.

On top of Marshall’s usual type of films being so vastly different to Pirates, stepping into a multi-billion dollar franchise at this late stage in the game is no small matter either.

Marshall and the Pirates franchise may not exactly be a perfect fit at first glance, but nonetheless, it’s kind of relieving to see that the studio is thinking outside of the box, hopefully to try and breath some fresh life into the now limp and muddled series of films.

Stay tuned to Screen Rant for news on whether or not Marshall signs on.

For the time being, what do you think about Rob “Chicago” Marshall directing Pirates 4?

Pirates of the Caribbean 4 will possibly begin shooting in April and May of 2010, and has a likely release date of sometime in 2011.

Sources: Variety via Cinematical

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Pirates 4 Status Update: Shooting Next Year?

Ross Miller — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 18:03:25 +0000

The last we reported on the much-speculated Pirates of the Caribbean 4, it was when Johnny Depp updated fans about the possible sequel while talking up his other upcoming movies, Alice in Wonderland and Dark Shadows. Depp didn’t give much, but did mention that the project was in the early stages, with the filmmakers trying to get a script together, and that generally he’d love to do it. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer also reportedly said a little while ago that a script was being worked on at the moment.

In an update and extension of what all has been said about Pirates of the Caribbean 4 as of late, Disney Head of Production, Oren Aviv, has revealed some rather surprisingly forthright news: the fourth installment in the hugely successful franchise is hopefully going to shoot in the first half of 2010, and could possibly be the start of a new trilogy:

“We’re going to shoot ‘Pirates 4′ in April and May of next year… We are going to release it hopefully in 2011 is the plan… hopefully [to] be the first of another trilogy.”

Aviv went on to talk about what the story needs to be for Pirates 4, admitting that he wants everything to be less complicated for the next one (and beyond):

“It’s important to get the story right and it’s important to me to scale it down, because we can’t get bigger… The movies have subsequently gotten bigger and bigger and very complicated and they were satisfying on so many levels obviously, but I want to kind of reboot the whole thing and bring it down to its core, its essence, just characters.”

Aviv also made mention of the fact that there’s a lot of Captain Jack Sparrow’s backstory that we haven’t gone into yet, but at the same didn’t say whether or not Pirates 4 would include any of that.

Bruckheimer also gave some more of his thoughts on Pirates 4 in a Q&A with TIME, confirming the fact that they’re working on a script. He sounds pretty eager to do another:

“I can’t wait to see it. We are working on a screenplay right now, and hopefully that will come together. These things are difficult to get right. We know Johnny [Depp] is interested in doing it, so that’s a good start.”

For more from Aviv you can head over to ComingSoon.net, and for the full Q&A with Bruckheimer you can head over to TIME.

It’s interesting to hear the direction that the Head of Production of Disney wants to go with the Pirates franchise now. It’s so relieving to see he realizes how complicated (although unfortunately he states that made them compelling) the franchise got as it went on, and I’d personally love to see the type of scaled down sequel he’s talking about.

To me, the first Pirates movie was the only good one, with the two sequels being (as stated) overly-complicated and overly-long tedious messes (particularly At World’s End). One of the main problems was the concentration on the love story between Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightley’s characters. Thankfully that probably won’t be included in the fourth movie, since Knightley has previously said she’s not doing another one (although we’ll see if the lure of a fat pay check changes that). And since Depp seems to be interested in returning as Captain Jack Sparrow, I really hope that’s where the concentration lies this time around.

Whether Pirates 4 does actually end up shooting next April and May as Aviv says is something we’ll just have to wait and see. But considering he’s the Head of Production at Disney, I’m pretty sure he has some idea of what he’s talking about.

What do you think about Pirates 4 possibly shooting by Spring next year? Do you like the sound of what Disney Production Head, Oren Aviv, has in mind for the future of the franchise?

As stated, Pirates of the Caribbean 4 is (potentially) going to be shooting in May and April of next year, and has a speculated release date of sometime in 2011.

Sources: ComingSoon and TIME (thanks to reader “Aly”)

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Johnny Depp Talks Wonderland, Pirates 4 & Dark Shadows

Ross Miller — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 19:04:52 +0000

Johnny Depp recently spoke with Collider promoting his upcoming gangster flick, Public Enemies, where he also gave some new details on his upcoming projects Alice in Wonderland, Pirates of the Caribbean 4, and the upcoming Dark Shadows adaptation. He also talked about his collaborations with director Tim Burton, and why they work well together. I know, wanted to hear about The Lone Ranger and his role as Tonto, too…

Tim Burton’s upcoming take on Alice in Wonderland is definitely one fans of both Burton and Lewis Carroll’s original story are looking forward to. Burton and Wonderland go together perfectly – it’s been a long-time easy guess that the Edward Scissorhands director would take on the classic Wonderland tale at some point in his career.

Depp was just as much of a no-brainer to play a part in Alice in Wonderland; him being cast as The Mad Hatter being utter perfection in my books. Depp spoke to Collider about the kind of research he (and Burton) did for the film, where he revealed that, “the book is the basis for everything [they're doing with the movie].” To be prepare for playing the character, Depp said there are, “little mysteries, little clues in the book that I found fascinating that were keys to at least my understanding of the Mad Hatter.”

For Alice in Wonderland, Depp also revealed he is very much on Burton’s creative boat as far as coming up with concept drawings for characters – “I made my little weird drawings and water colors and brought them to Tim [Burton] and he brought me his weird little drawings and water colors and they were not dissimilar [laughs]. You could’ve put them right together and they were pretty darn close.”

On Pirates of the Caribbean 4, Depp didn’t give much, other than saying what they’re “trying to do is just get a script in order and make sure it’s the right thing to do. If we can get a great script it’d be a ball.” As Collider points out, you can basically read that statement as the project is happening but we’re probably a long ways off from seeing it move into production.

For his next collaboration with Mr. Burton, after Alice in Wonderland, Depp spoke about the Dark Shadows adaptation, which he is excited about doing. Depp confirms that it, “is happening,” and reveals that the script is, “very, very close,” with he and Burton probably going to, “attack it next year.” He seems more enthusiastic and excited about this project than even Wonderland or even Pirates, adding that, “it’s very, very exciting… I loved the show when I was a kid… It’s like a lifelong dream for me.”

Continued on Page 2…

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Gore Verbinski Trades Pirates For ‘Bioshock’

Rob Keyes — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 16:29:13 +0000

Gore Verbinski, director of all three Pirates of the Caribbean films, is ending his streak and not participating in the fourth installment. Instead, Verbinski will be focusing his efforts on the upcoming Bioshock video game adaptation.

Verbinski recently let Disney and producer Jerry Bruckheimer know that he will not be back to direct Pirates of the Caribbean 4.

That’s good news for everyone! Verbinski now has a chance to work on something different – another film that could spawn its own franchise – and the fans of the series get a new helmer to take the next Pirates film in a different direction (which is what it desperately needs).

In speaking with Variety, Verbinski said:

“I had a fantastic time bringing ‘Pirates’ to life, and I am eternally grateful to Jerry, Johnny and the rest of the creative and production team… I’m looking forward to all of us crossing paths again in the future.”

Under his control, and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise raked in over $2.6 billion worldwide. The next film is currently in development and starring Johnny Depp again as Captain Jack Sparrow. However, it has yet to be officially green lit.

I wonder if they’ll bring in a big name director for the next flick or if they’ll pass the torch to a relative newcomer.

A Big Daddy protecting a Little Sister in Bioshock

As for Bioshock, there’s been no major updates on this project for quite some time. It was initially expected to release in 2010 but with no cast or official schedule announced, I expect that it will get pushed back at least a year.

What are you thoughts on Pirates of the Caribbean 4 and the Bioshock movies?

Source: Variety

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Keira Knightley Says No To Pirates 4

Ross Miller — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 16:30:09 +0000

For any of you Pirates of the Caribbean fans out there I’m sure you’ve been wondering and hoping that the franchise will continue, with the original cast intact. Well even though Johnny Depp is reprising his role as Captain Jack Sparrow, it appears that Keira Knightley won’t be returning as Miss Swann, or as anyone else for that matter.

In an interview with Moviefone, Knightley expressed her plans (or lack thereof) for the fourth film in the Pirates franchise. Check out what she had to say:

It was a completely fantastic experience, and it was an amazingly large portion of my life, but I don’t think I need to go there again. I think that it’s done. But I’m very excited to see the next one. And he [Johnny Depp] is so wonderful in that character. I think it’ll be wonderful.

The Pirates franchise is one which lost me at number two – the first was good (although has lost its appeal after being beaten over the head with the constant mentioning of all things Pirates), but the second and particularly the third were just total wastes and complete bores (why in the hell did the third one need to be nearly three hours?).

The only way I would want to see a fourth film is if they ditch the love story and concentrate on the franchise’s two best characters – Captain Jack Sparrow and Captain Barbossa. And with Knightley now saying she’s not doing another one (although we’ll see if time and a truck load of money changes that decision), it looks like at least as much of the romance won’t be present.

So is Keira Knightley right for not coming back for another Pirates movie? And should there be anymore at all?

Pirates of the Caribbean 4 is expected to be released sometime in 2011.

Source: Moviefone

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Russell Brand Hints At Role In Pirates Of The Caribbean 4

Rob Keyes — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 16:39:29 +0000

Last October, rumors were circulating rampantly about the fourth installment in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. They ranged from Johnny Depp earning a $50+ million payday for the movie all the way to some comedians being in the running to play the brother of Depp’s character, Captain Jack Sparrow.

These rumors were quickly shot down by Terry Rossio, a screenwriter of the Pirates of the Caribbean trilogy and from then on, we haven’t heard anything for the next movie.

Well, now it looks like at least one of these things is still a possibility. Russell Brand, most known for his role in Forgetting Sarah Marshall as the infamous singer Aldous Snow (he’s getting his own spinoff titled Get Him to the Greek) briefly discussed that he still may be involved.

In an appearance on a program for Access Hollywood, Brand said the following:

“There’s been some talk of doing a ‘Pirates’ movie….But, I’ve got eight other things to do [including] ‘Get Him To The Greek’ with Judd Apatow… So I don’t know if there’ll be time to be a pirate, I’ve got enough of that in me private life.”

Brand later said it can still happen – I’m assuming if they truly are seeking him for a role in the movie the scheduling just needs to be worked out.

“A possibility, yes… I think it’s a possibility.”

He kept the mood light in describing how busy he currently is. It’s hard to say for sure, but it sounds like he’s playing it a little coy.

I still think Brand would make a great character for the next movie, and I think scenes between him and Depp could make for some great comedy. I really was disappointed with the Pirates sequels, so I hope the next is vastly improved.

What do you think?

Pirates of the Caribbean 4 is expected to open some time in 2011.

Source: Access Hollywood

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Pirates Of The Caribbean 4 Rumors Shot Down

Rob Keyes — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 18:52:57 +0000

One of the screenwriters of the Pirates of the Caribbean trilogy, Terry Rossio apparently took some time to post a message to debunk the madness that is the rumors swirling around the upcoming 4th Pirates of the Caribbean installment.

These rumors included a $56 million dollar contract for Depp, Tim Burton as director and even Sacha Baron Cohen or Russel Brand (from Forgetting Sarah Marshall) as Captain Jack’s brother.

“For the record, none of the recent Pirates 4 rumors have any truth, including the so-called record 50 million dollar payday for Depp.”

“Some pretty funny stuff, though. Sacha Cohen? Tim Burton? Studios are way too protective of their franchises for that sort of thing. “

Thanks Terry!

The only confirmations we do have are that Depp will star and that the movie will center around his character. As for the rumors, I wouldn’t mind seeing either Brand or Cohen play the brother – they’re both really funny in my opinion and Brand even looks like he’s from that world normally.

Pirates of the Caribbean 4 is due out some time in 2012.

Source: Wordplay Forums

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Mid-Week Movie News Wrap Up – Oct. 9, 2008

Niall Browne — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 19:04:54 +0000

Welcome to yet another jam-packed, news filled installment of the Mid-Week Movie News Wrap Up.

This week: Kevin Costner may play ball again; Tim Burton may helm Pirates of The Carribbean 4; David Cronenberg is Bourne again (kind of); we check out the helmer of 28 Months Later and Bill Murray talks Ghostbusters 3 and you can see Prince of Peace – God of War for free.

1. Kevin Costner may make his first ever sequel. Maybe.

Producer Thom Mount has stated that he has a script in development that is a sequel to 1980’s baseball classic Bull Durham. The film was one of Costner’s most successful (critically at least) films and it co-starred Susan Sarandon and Tim Robbins.

Mount says that no cast has yet signed on, but there is a slim chance that Costner and company may return. If not, I wouldn’t be surprised if Kurt Russell stars – as he was originally in the frame for the lead role, but the studio went for the more box office friendly Costner.

Source: Moviehole

2. Cinema Blend has a scoop that says that Tim Burton may be in the frame to replace Gore Verbinski in the director’s chair for the fourth instalment of The Pirates of the Caribbean.

Although Verbinski is set to return, apparently Burton is ready to make Jack Sparrow gothic if he decides that fourth time isn’t a charm.

It seems unlikely – but Johnny Depp and Burton have a special relationship, and I’m sure Burton would consider it, if he was asked. He’s also currently shooting Alice In Wonderland for “the house of the mouse”. Also, he didn’t say no to Planet of the Apes so why would he not consider a Depp movie with Pirates and other wierd stuff.

I hope this isn’t so, as it would seem like a backward step for Burton.

Source: Cinema Blend

3. David Cronenberg is pondering directing duties on The Matarese Circle. The film is based on a novel by Bourne Identity novelist Robert Ludlum. The pic is due to star Denzel Washington.

It sounds a bit too mainstream for Cronenberg – but then again, so did The Fly.

I saw A History of Violence recently, I must say that I wasn’t impressed.

Source: Variety

4. The unlikely “Days Later” franchise has nabbed a director for a third instalment of Zombie action. Paul Andrew Williams will helm 28 Months Later. the follow-up to 28 Days Later and 28 Weeks Later. See what they did there? I can’t wait for 28 Years Later.

Source: Arrow In The Head

5. Coming Soon got talking to Bill Murray about Ghostbusters 3, and the star seemed quite open to returning to the franchise. However it does all depend on the script. I’m guessing the paycheck is important too!

This is what went down at the interview:

Q: You play a hero in “Ghostbusters” and a villain in this movie. Is it more fun playing a good guy or a bad guy? And what persuaded you to go back for the rumored “Ghostbusters 3″?

Murray: Well, you’re way ahead of me, but that’s okay. There’s someone trying to write a script for another “Ghostbusters” movie. There’s two fellows from “The Office” that are writing a script, but I have yet to see it. And I’m more involved with, you know, trying to get the dessert we order at lunch than I am with the new “Ghostbusters” sequel. (Laughter) But it’s possible. It’s a great idea that they hired these two guys to do it, ’cause I think it could be a fresh look at it. And it could be funny. We did a sequel and it was rather unsatisfying for me, because the first one to me was ‘the goods.’ It was the real thing, and the sequel, you know, it was a few years later, and there was an idea pitched. They got us all together in a room. We just laughed for a couple of hours, and then they said, “What if we did another one? Here’s an idea these guys have got.” So they had this idea, but it didn’t turn out to be the idea when I arrived on the set. They’d written a whole different movie. And the special effects guys got their hands on it, and it was just not the same movie. There were a few great scenes in it, but it wasn’t the same movie. So there’s never been an interest in a third “Ghostbusters” ’cause the second one was kind of disappointing, for me, anyway. But the third one could happen.

But you asked me a question about bein’ a bad guy and a good guy. It’s so much easier to be a bad guy. It’s a piece a cake. It’s a joke. (Laughter) And, you know, I keep saying, “Why do they give Oscars to guys that play bad guys,” ’cause it’s so simple. Play a good guy some time. That’s hard. Play a really, decent good person. That’s hard.

Q: So would you go back for “Ghostbusters” again?

Murray: Only if I could play an evil person. (Laughter) No, it’s mostly all about the script. I don’t have any obligation to the franchise or anyone. If the script were good and I thought we could do it, it’d be fun. But, you know, it’s only now that this has ever been a prospect. No one’s ever talked about it for a long time, ’cause the second one was the way it was. This is just kind of a clever idea. I think they see that, and the fact that every interview today has asked me about the “Ghostbusters” movie–every single person–means that there is some interest for it. You think you’re talking about the “City of Ember,” but I’ve answered as many questions about the “Ghostbusters” as I have about… well, not as many, but, I mean, on every single one. So there’s interest in it.

You really have to love how the interviewer shoe-horned Ghostbusters in to that first question. He must have been up all night working on that. I’m also thinking that there was a bet around the Comingsoon office as to whether he would have the stones to ask it or not.

Source: Comingsoon

6. Prince of Peace – God of War, a documentary by John Campea (who runs TheMovieBlog.com) is now available free online. The film got some kudos on the festival circuit and I’m sure that it will excite and divide people with an equal amount of passion. You can check it out here.

It’s like, free – so why not. That’s the beauty of film in the digital age – it can reach everyone.

That’s it for another week – see you at the movies!

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Pirates 4: Is Johnny Depp The 56 Million Dollar Man?

Jamie Williams — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 02:41:11 +0000

Was anyone honestly surprised to hear Disney was actively developing Pirates of the Caribbean 4? Or the news that Johnny Depp would in fact reprise his role of Captain Jack Sparrow?

I didn’t think so.

According to the UK’s Daily Mail, Depp will receive a massive payday in the form of $56 million US (aka 32 million pounds UK) to put on the black eye-liner for a fourth time.

Normally, I wouldn’t believe this considering the source is the British tabloids which certainly are biased in the whole “truth-telling” department. That said, there’s probably something to this news item.

Say what you will about their quality (God knows I’ve said my fair share… and then some!), both Pirates sequels chugged out just under $2 billion between them. And that doesn’t even include the big-bucks the Mouse earned from home video sales, television rights, merchandising, etc.

No two ways around it, Depp is the franchise. Like Harrison Ford with Indiana Jones, this isn’t a film series where the actor is interchangeable to the character (like James Bond and Superman to name a few) and Disney is smart enough to realize that.

And from the sounds of things, the studio wanted to make damned sure they had Depp lined up before hiring anyone else. Thus why they’ve yet to hire screenwriter(s) or a director – at least that we know of at the moment.

Pirates of the Caribbean 4 is currently aiming for a May 2011 release.

Source: The Daily Mail

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Johnny Depp As Captain Jack Tonto With A Mad Hat…

Rob Keyes — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 15:17:08 +0000

In July, Screen Rant brought you news about everybody’s favorite bizarre-character actor, Johnny Deep being cast as the Mad Hatter in Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland. This came as no big surprise since Burton and Depp are married, err… I mean close friends in a business-sense sort of way. They are well known as one of the biggest and longest running director-actor relationships in the industry and this will be their 7th feature film together.

On Wednesday, the big news came with Disney holding an all-day event and presentation where they again confirmed the Mad Hatter announcement and revealed some other interesting tidbits. During the showcase, Depp made an appearance sporting his full Jack Sparrow outfit and it’s confirmed that the infamous captain Jack will be back for more rum-induced wackiness in Pirates of the Caribbean 4.

Along with these announcements, it was also unexpectedly revealed that Depp is signed to play Tonto in an upcoming remake of The Lone Ranger. Tonto is just the sidekick to the main man in that film, so it will be interesting to see who will play the lead. Apparently, when Captain Jack first came on stage, he was sporting the lone ranger mask as well, and removed it revealing himself as Depp – much to the crowd’s excitement.

The 3D-animated Alice in Wonderland and Pirates of the Caribbean 4 are set for 2010 and 2011 release dates respectively. There’s no date set for The Lone Ranger.

Do you think a fourth, and possibly a fifth Pirates installment is good news? What do you think of Depp as the Lone Ranger’s sidekick? Who then should play the lead? I think it has to be big star otherwise Depp will steal the screentime and spotlight. As for Pirates, I’m all for it, as long as they’re taking it in a new direction which it sounds like they are. I thought the second film was watchable but the third one was awful.

Sources: IESB.net, Ain’t it Cool News

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Weekend Movie News Wrap Up: Mar 2, 2008

Niall Browne — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 17:06:01 +0000

Hey there guys and gals, welcome to my first Weekend Movie News Wrap Up.

This new column is to try and fill you in on various pieces of news that happened during the week that we may have missed.

We at Screen Rant are a dedicated bunch, but there are only so many hours in the day, and movie news comes in thick and fast – so to try and keep you up to speed, we will now be picking up some news stories from the past week that we missed and bring them to a computer near you!

1. It would appear that Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull will be making its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival on Sunday, May 18 2008.

2. Kodi Smit-McPhee, the boy who was cast as the young Logan in Wolverine has had to drop out of the film due to a scheduling conflict. He will be replaced by Troye Mellet.

3. It seems that Disney is planning another Pirates of The Caribbean film, to be released in 2011. The working title is Pirates of The Caribbean: Milk That Cash Cow.

4. MTV got the lowdown on the plot of the new James Bond film – Quantum of Solace. MGM states that:

“‘Quantum of Solace‘ continues the high octane adventures of James Bond (Daniel Craig) in ‘Casino Royale.’ Betrayed by Vesper, the woman he loved, 007 fights the urge to make his latest mission personal.”

There’s much more, so visit MTV at the link below for more details.

5. IBbelieveInHarveyDent.com has added an email update section that informs you that:

We Have the power to change Gotham City

Go and sign up for future emails informing you about The Dark Knight.

6. It seems that Gerard Butler will be joining the world of Watchmen after all. Butler will be lending his voice to Tales Of The Black Freighter, an animated companion piece to Watchmen that will be included on the DVD release.

7. The Remake craze continues with Bumped, a re imagining of The Breakfast Club. Only get this, it’s set in an airport, not a school! Oohhh… different.

I hope that your thirst for movie news has now been quenched, more next week!

Sources: Variety, Superherohype,Aintitcool, MTV,Ibelieveinharveydent.com, Empire, The Hollywood Reporter

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