6 Plot Ideas To Revive Pirates Of The Caribbean Franchise After Johnny Depp’s Departure
We've got a jar of ideas, and guess what's inside it?
While the sixth installment of the swashbuckler franchise is in development, the direction it will take is still up in the air. Originally, Margot Robbie 's project was to be a sequel, but its cancellation and Johnny Depp 's forced departure from the franchise leave the film's fate unclear.
However, over the years, the Pirates of the Caribbean universe has evolved beyond the flamboyant Jack Sparrow, offering plenty of storytelling possibilities. Here are 6 plot ideas that provide intriguing alternatives if Depp doesn't return to his iconic role.
Unfolding Legacy
Continuing the story of Henry Turner, the son of Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann, introduced in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales, is a compelling avenue to explore in Pirates of the Caribbean 6.
Henry opens the door to new adventures as he seeks to break his father's curse and free him from the Flying Dutchman. Disney could develop Henry's character by having him follow in his father's footsteps, navigate the seas, meet new allies and foes, and potentially help Carina Smyth bring her father, Captain Barbossa, back to life.
Captain Barbossa’s Past
Geoffrey Rush's Captain Hector Barbossa was a fan favorite with a rich backstory hinted at throughout the series. A prequel, dedicated to his past, would be a compelling addition to the franchise, exploring his rise from humble sailor to fearsome pirate captain of the Black Pearl.
Viewers could see Barbossa's transformation, his acquisition of the cursed Aztec gold which caused him and his crew to spend ten years lifting the spell, and his infamous rivalry with Jack Sparrow. The prequel could also delve deeper into his life as a sailor and show what led him to leave his daughter, Carina Smyth, behind.
The Brethren Court
The lore surrounding the Pirate Lords, introduced in Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End, is a fascinating aspect of the franchise that deserves deeper exploration. A movie dedicated to the nine powerful pirate captains and their Code, their meeting at Shipwreck Cove, and their collective history would allow for epic adventures and a deeper dive into the politics of the pirate world.
Will Turner’s Eternal Servitude
Will Turner's duty to carry the souls of sailors to the afterlife on the Flying Dutchman creates opportunities for unique and supernatural adventures. We could follow Will's struggles and encounters with the souls of deceased pirates, exploring the mysteries of the Flying Dutchman, and the challenges of his eternal servitude.
The film could also delve into Will's life after spending more than a decade on the ship, and feature his encounter with Davy Jones as the Dead Men Tell No Tales’ final after-credits scene hinted at the Lord of the Seven Seas returning.
Calypso and Davy Jones' Love Story
The first two Pirates movies introduced us to the mysterious and fierce sea goddess Calypso and her troubled relationship with the Scottish pirate Davy Jones. While Calypso charged Davy Jones with carrying the souls of lost sailors to the afterlife and entrusted with the Flying Dutchman, Jones played a role in the capture of the Sea Witch.
A film that delves into the characters' shared past, their love, and betrayal, could greatly enrich the lore of the franchise.
Young Jack Sparrow Prequel
As the franchise looks to move beyond Johnny Depp's portrayal of Jack Sparrow, it may want to consider a prequel that introduces a younger, not-yet-cynical Jack Sparrow. This movie could explore his early adventures, winning the Black Pearl, and developing his iconic persona.
A fresh actor in the role could breathe new life into the character and offer a different perspective on the notorious pirate.