Release Date:
12/04/2007
At World's End is the type of blockbuster that was made for Blu-ray, which is why we're giving it such props. (The regular DVD would be lucky to get three stars.) The problem with the movie is simple: It's too damn long at two hours and 50 minutes! Unlike The Lord of the Rings, this trilogy was based on a Disney ride, so they should have chilled out a bit. We knew there was a big whirly-pool thing at the end, so just get to it already and quit wasting time with all the plot twists and betrayals we started to ignore halfway through. On the plus side, the effects and visuals are unlike anything we've ever seen; and in crystal-clear HD they pop even more, so you won't be bored. The second disc of extras is a bit of a letdown, with some short documentaries either focusing on characters or bragging about how this production was bigger than any other in the history of movies. (It's ironic that environment-conscious Hollywood would boast about using 100 pounds of oil per minute to create the ship's movement during the finale.) There's no massive documentary about the entire Pirates undertaking, but to be fair that was handled very well on the Dead Man's Chest DVD. Another one may have been too repetitiveor else they're planning a "Mega Super Pirates Deluxe Box Set," and this version is solely taking advantage of the holiday shopping season. Despite all our bitching, we still love how gross and violent these movies aimed at kids have been, so pour a big glass of rum and drink up, yo ho! Just be sure to take breaks and stretch. The last thing you need is another blood clot.