Pirates of Caribbean: Curse of Black Pearl [Blu-ray] [2003] [US Import]

I have based my star rating mainly upon the value for money aspect for this item compared to the 2 disc version. To get to the point, in my humble opinion it is not worth paying extra for this 3 disc version. The disc comprises several "extras" which on average last about 5 minutes each and in total amount to less than one hours worth of viewing. The "Dead men tell no Tails" extra can basically be watched online and even if you didnt have internet access you wouldnt be missing that much anyway. The longest extra lasts about 13 minutes and a good chunk of this (if not all of it) is actually included within one of the extras on disc 2 anyway. The "Fun look" at foreign dubbed versions of the film isnt fun but does show the skill of the dubbing. Granted, some of the third disc contents is new but bearing in mind that you are paying around £6 or £7 extra for the third disc unless you eat, breath and sleep this film, it is rather poor value for money and after watching the extras on disc 2, disc 3 really pales in comparison. I think that Disney realise this, which is why it has been produced in strictly limited numbers. I also have to wonder whether they could have squeezed some of the contents of the extra disc onto the first two discs if they wanted. The film is of course great and the two disc version is certainly worth paying for.

In conclusion, stick to the 2 disc version me hearties and save some of those hard earned pieces of eight, arrrrrr.

Good, but there is really no need to spend extra for 3 discs.......
There are tonnes of extras (as you would expect from 3 discs) and they are all very good, my favourites being Deleted Scenes, Image Gallery and Moonlight Serenade Scene Progression. There are only about 10 extras that you would really be interested in or even watch, so there is no point in all of these extras; most of the these are as boring as hell to watch; such as Becoming Jack. The thick box that the three-edition box set comes in is very attractive and feels good.

The story (if you don't already know) *****: Set in the 1700's, Port Royals ships stumble upon a young boy named Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) lost at sea, they save him. Elizabeth (Keira Knightly), the daughter of the governor discovers a golden skull medallion around his neck, she fears he will be executed for piracy, so she takes it herself. The story continues 8 years later. This is a truly awesome film; the graphics, the plot, the acting and well, everything. Johnny Depp plays Jack Sparrow and he is a truly believable pirate. All of the acting is good.

The fighting scenes are awesome. Especially the one when all of the pirates sneak up on the Royal Port's ship. The graphics are excellent for when the Black Pearl's crew turn skeleton-like. The plot is original, and very good. Children under 9ish might not quite follow it. This film, as well as being adventure/action, is also a comedy. There are laugh out loud moments for both parents and children, this is a real family film. This film came 22nd in USA's history of best selling films, and it does live up to its standard.

As I said, you don't really need to buy this three-edition box set; two discs would do you fine. But if you are a real fan (like me) then you should buy this edition, even though you may not ever open the third disc. The film itself earns its 5 stars, and all of these extras are even for greater value,

10/10

Some may see the Lost Disc edition as a way for Disney to get more money from devoted fans and customers but in essence they are giving us what we want. The film itself is brilliant; fun family entertainment. If you like your extras then this boxset has plenty beginning with a plethora of commentaries on the first disc featuring the cast, writers, producer and director. The second disc has features on everything from the gag reel and the deleted scenes to Jerry Bruckheimer's photo diary and the diary of the ship that 'played' the Interceptor. Look out for the Easter Eggs on the second disc too as there is a brief interview with Keith Richards, the inspiration for Captain Jack Sparrow. The Lost Disc includes more features on the cast and characters with some nice history about the Disney ride that the film was inspired by. In all if you like fun adventure stories then this is the film for you. If you like featurettes, interviews and other extra bits then this is definitely a boxset to invest in.