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One man has been guarding the
existence of a parchment that contains clues to the location of Edward Teach's secret treasure trove on an Island in the Caribbean, said to be guarded by a macabre human spirit manifesting itself with a golden human skull.
This
is an A to Z index of some of the best film and television entertainment on planet
earth. Apart from entertainment, we have found a way of capturing and
recording history as educational biopics, and retelling these events in a
way that humans understand and enjoy.
Many
are complete works of fiction with superhumans and animated cartoon
characters coming to life from the pages of comics, and these tend to
outperform true life stories in terms of financial returns for Hollywood
and other studios
around the world.
As an artform, making cinematic pictures that make people laugh and cry
requires extreme dedication from the actors,
directors
and producers,
who turn scripts into a visual experience that helps to shape lives. And let
us not forget the studios that take a chance on backing a variety of
subjects and stories that need to be told, to inspire the next generations
of film makers and movie goers. At the same time providing millions of jobs
around the world to develop the technology that we tend to take for granted.
But is nothing less than amazing.
A
- Z FILMS INDEX - ARCHIVE
We wondered then about the history of pirate swashbucklers, and in particular how
'Blackbeard's Curse and Pirate's Gold' might fit into the mix, as a future reboot of
Treasure Island. Could such a movie blend Action with high seas Adventure, Comedy, and Romance? And is the movie world, film goers ready for another pirate movie, after the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise?
Blending Genres in "Blackbeard's Curse and Pirate's Gold":
The premise of a Treasure Island reboot infused with elements of "Blackbeard's Curse" and "Pirate's Gold" offers a rich canvas for blending several popular genres:
1. Action & High Seas Adventure: This is the inherent core of any pirate story, especially
Treasure
Island. Swashbuckling sword fights, ship battles, daring escapes, navigating treacherous waters, and the quest for hidden treasure are all natural fits.
2. Comedy: The dynamic between characters (a potentially roguish Long John Silver type, a more modern or skeptical protagonist, eccentric pirates), the absurdity of certain situations, and witty dialogue can easily inject humor into the adventure. The "Blackbeard's Curse" element could also lend itself to comedic scenarios, perhaps through supernatural mishaps or the clash of historical figures with modern sensibilities.
3. Romance: Depending on the direction, a romantic subplot could be woven in. This could involve the protagonist and another character encountered on their journey, or even a more unconventional romance tied to the historical or cursed elements.
The Movie World and Another Pirate Movie:
This is the crucial question. The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise was a massive global phenomenon, proving the enduring appeal of pirate stories when done well. However, its later installments saw diminishing returns and a degree of audience fatigue.
Here's a balanced perspective on whether the movie world is ready for another pirate movie:
Potential Positives:
- Nostalgia and Enduring Appeal: The romanticism of pirates, buried
treasure, and high-seas adventures remains a captivating theme for many.
-
Fresh Take Potential: A reboot of Treasure Island with a unique twist incorporating "Blackbeard's Curse" and "Pirate's Gold" could offer a fresh and exciting perspective on a classic story. This isn't just a straight retread.
-
Genre Blending: As discussed, the potential to blend action, adventure, comedy, and even a touch of supernatural or romance could attract a broader audience.
-
Gap in the Market: Since the Pirates of the
Caribbean franchise has seemingly concluded (at least with its original main characters), there might be a gap in the market for a well-executed pirate adventure.
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Strong Source Material: Treasure Island is a beloved and enduring story with a built-in audience.
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Intriguing Concepts: "Blackbeard's Curse" and "Pirate's Gold" add layers of mystery and potential for unique plot elements that could differentiate it from previous pirate films.
Potential Challenges:
1. "Pirates" Fatigue: The mixed reception of the later Pirates of the Caribbean films might make audiences hesitant about another large-scale pirate franchise.
2.
Standing Out: The new film would need a compelling hook and a distinct identity to avoid being seen as a mere imitation.
3.
Tone Management: Balancing action, adventure, comedy, and romance effectively is crucial. A misstep in tone could alienate audiences.
4.
Visual Spectacle: Modern audiences expect impressive visuals and thrilling action sequences in adventure films, which can be costly to produce.
SCENE: SPARRING SESSION
INT. ELIZABETH SWANN HELM - DAY
The helm of the hydrogen ship, ELIZABETH
SWANN, is sleek and modern, dominated by holographic displays and touchscreens. Yet, mounted on the polished bulkhead behind the central console, two antique pirate cutlasses gleam under the soft ambient lighting.
CAPTAIN JOHN STORM (40s, capable, with a thoughtful intensity) and
DAN HAWK (30s, energetic, tech-savvy) stand in the spacious area before the console, both wearing comfortable, shipboard attire. Dan gestures towards the antique swords with admiration.
DAN: You know, Captain, these old blades have seen some action. Imagine the stories they could tell.
John steps closer, running a hand along the weathered hilt of one.
JOHN: They do have a certain… presence. Reminders of a wilder time on these oceans. Though I prefer our
hydrogen power to relying on the whims of the wind.
DAN: Agreed. Speaking of the future… check this out.
Dan taps on a wrist-mounted device. The air in front of them shimmers, and a detailed holographic environment materializes: a stylized dojo with glowing geometric patterns. Two translucent, hilt-like objects appear in their hands – dummy light sabres, their energy blades crackling softly.
DAN (CONT'D): My latest VR sparring program. Full haptic feedback, customizable opponents… but today, it’s Captain vs. First Mate. Ready for some light saber dueling, Captain?
John grins, a spark of playful competitiveness in his eyes.
JOHN: Lead the way, Mr. Hawk. Though I suspect your futuristic weaponry won’t prepare you for a good old-fashioned cutlass.
They take up fighting stances, the dummy light sabres humming.
HAL (V.O. - Calm, synthesized voice): Commencing VR Sparring Simulation. Opponents: Storm, J. – Hawk, D. Scoring enabled. First to ten points wins.
Dan lunges, his light sabre flashing in a swift arc. John parries with surprising agility, the energy blades clashing with a satisfying snap-hiss.
HAL (V.O.): Hawk, one point.
JOHN: Beginner's luck.
They circle each other, a playful tension in the air. Dan attacks again, a flurry of quick strikes. John defends expertly, his movements precise and economical. He counters, his dummy light sabre tagging Dan’s shoulder.
HAL (V.O.): Storm, one point. Tie score.
After several more exchanges, John’s superior tactical awareness and surprising skill become evident. He anticipates Dan’s moves, blocks effortlessly, and lands clean hits.
HAL (V.O.): Storm, three points. Hawk, one point.
HAL (V.O.): Storm, five points. Hawk, two points.
Dan, panting slightly, lowers his dummy light sabre.
DAN: Okay, Captain. You’ve clearly got some hidden Jedi skills. All that quiet contemplation on the bridge must be paying off.
JOHN (Chuckles): Or maybe I watched a few too many holovids of ancient Earth sword fights.
DAN: Well, prepare for a serious upgrade. Next round, no mercy!
They resume sparring, but the pattern continues. John consistently outmaneuvers and outfights Dan in the VR environment.
HAL (V.O.): Storm, eight points. Hawk, three points.
HAL (V.O.): Storm, ten points. Simulation terminated. Winner: Storm, J.
Dan removes his VR headset, a sheepish grin on his face.
DAN: Alright, alright. You win. But VR isn't everything, Captain. It’s just… pixels and light.
John raises an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in his eyes.
JOHN: Is that a challenge, Mr. Hawk?
He gestures towards the antique cutlasses on the wall. Dan’s eyes widen.
DAN: You’re not serious… with those?
JOHN: For a bit of fun, as you said. Safety first.
John retrieves the two cutlasses. Dan watches with a mixture of apprehension and excitement. John carefully caps the sharp tips of both blades with soft, brightly colored protectors. He then tosses one to Dan.
JOHN (CONT'D): Padded jackets are in the locker. Let’s see if your VR skills translate to a bit of old-world swashbuckling.
They don thick, padded jackets. Dan cautiously takes a fencing stance, holding the capped cutlass somewhat awkwardly. John, however, moves with a natural grace, his stance balanced and his blade held with confident ease.
DAN: Uh, Captain? You… you seem surprisingly comfortable with that thing.
JOHN: One never knows what skills might come in handy on the high seas, Mr. Hawk.
They begin to spar. Dan is enthusiastic but clearly outmatched. John’s movements are fluid and precise, disarming Dan with swift flicks of his wrist. The capped blades clang harmlessly against their padded jackets.
JOHN: En garde!
Clang! John’s blade knocks Dan’s weapon out of his hand. It clatters to the deck.
DAN: Okay, you got lucky that time.
Dan retrieves his sword. They engage again. This time, John feints left, then swiftly attacks Dan’s exposed side, his capped blade tapping the padding.
DAN: Agh! You’re too fast! You would have had me.
Again, they reset. Dan tries a more aggressive approach, but John effortlessly parries and counters, his movements almost balletic. He delivers a gentle tap to Dan’s chest with his capped blade.
DAN: Right through the heart. You’re a natural, Captain. Where did you learn to do that?
One final exchange. John, with a flourish, spins his cutlass and cleanly disarms Dan once more, then holds the capped tip of his blade inches from Dan’s throat.
DAN (Smiling wryly): Alright, alright! I yield! You are definitely the swashbuckling master, Captain. VR is no match for the real deal, especially in your hands. I am thoroughly outclassed.
John lowers his sword, a satisfied grin on his face.
JOHN: Just a bit of fun, Mr. Hawk. And a reminder that sometimes, the old ways still have their merits.
HAL (V.O.): Observation: Commander Storm demonstrates a significantly higher proficiency in simulated and physical bladed combat compared to
Navigator Hawk. Efficiency rating: Storm, 98%. Hawk, 42%. Recommend further training for
Mr Hawk.
Dan throws his hands up in mock surrender.
DAN: Thanks, Hal. Always supportive.
John claps Dan on the shoulder, the camaraderie between them evident.
JOHN: Next time, we’ll stick to drone piloting, Mr. Hawk. That seems more your forte.
Dan laughs, picking up his capped cutlass.
DAN: Agreed, Captain. Agreed. But I’m not giving up on the light sabres just yet. There’s still room for improvement… and maybe a few more unexpected wins.
They share a look, the friendly rivalry continuing as they return the antique swords to their display.
FADE OUT.
Summary:
The movie world could be ready for another pirate movie, but it needs to be fresh, well-written, and offer something different from what has come before. "Blackbeard's Curse and Pirate's Gold" as a Treasure Island reboot has the potential to do just that by:
- Leveraging a classic story with built-in recognition.
- Infusing it with intriguing new elements ("Blackbeard's Curse," "Pirate's Gold").
- Successfully blending popular genres to appeal to a wider audience.
The key would be to strike the right balance of adventure, humor, and perhaps a touch of the supernatural or romantic intrigue, while delivering exciting action and a compelling narrative that justifies revisiting the pirate genre. If executed well, this concept has the potential to capture the imaginations of both longtime pirate fans and new audiences alike.
Top 10 treasure island films
Treasure Island 1934 MGM -
Treasure Island 1950 RKO Walt Disney -
Treasure Island 1972 CCC Film & National General Pictures -
Treasure Island 1990 TV Movie -
Muppet Treasure Island 1996 -
Treasure Island (I) 1999 -
Treasure
Planet 2002 Disney, animated -
Treasure Island 2007 Die Schatzinsel -
Treasure Island 2012 BSkyB TV 180 min Action, Adventure -
Treasure
Island 2019-2023 Universal Studios & Mandeville -
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