
Back in 2003, it’s amazing how easily we might forget the massive impact that the first “Pirates of the Caribbean” film had. Directors Gore Verbinski and Jerry Bruckheimer took a significant risk by banking on Johnny Depp, an unproven box office star, to headline a $140 million production based on a theme park ride. It seemed almost implausible that Disney would stake everything on a blockbuster from the director of “Mouse Hunt” and “The Ring,” featuring the actor known for “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” and “Chocolat.” Yet, against all odds, it succeeded. “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” unexpectedly became a financial triumph, kickstarting a series of five films. Over two decades later, another “Pirates” movie is finally being made.