In 2003, Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl took the world by storm.
The world fell in love with the swashbuckling action-adventure fantasy film (with a hint of romance), reminded us of Johnny Depp and Geoffrey Rush’s talents, cemented Orlando Bloom and Kiera Knightley as household names, and launched the start of a massive film franchise.
Now, 5 films in and 22 years later, Symphonic Events Presents has brought the iconic maritime tale back to the big screen with a live symphony orchestra. Over two sessions, the Symphonic Events Presents’ Melbourne concerts were held at the The Plenary, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and I was granted the opportunity to attend the second show at 1pm on Sunday the 9th of February.
Directed by Gore Verbinski, screenwriting by Ted Elliott and Terry Rossio, produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, with its score by Klaus Badelt and Hans Zimmer, Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl – Live in Concert was a nostalgic and exciting revisit to the beloved film series that has entertained many and inspired generations.
The Australian Stage Orchestra and the Royal Melbourne Philharmonic Chorus, conducted by Guy Noble were ready for their second marathon-like run of the epic sea story, but not before a keen introduction and surprise sea shanty from Tripod’s Steven “Gatesy” Gates. The warm and interactive start to the event had patrons passionately singing along, pumping their fists in the air, cheering loudly and in unison at the carefully instructed moments by Gatesy, as if we were all pirates aboard his ship and about to embark on our own fantastic nautical adventure.
Many patrons were appropriately dressed for the occasion with some in their own pirate cosplay attire, many in their movie merchandise outfits, and others just beaming with high spirits, all eager to see Pirates of the Caribbean on-screen again.
If you’ve not seen the film before or have been living under a rock (or both), Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl follows the hilarious antics and challenges of Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp), his first mate Joshamee Gibbs (Kevin McNally), the class divided love story between the Governor’s daughter Elizabeth Swann (Kiera Knightley) and her childhood-friend-turned-blacksmith Will Turner (Orlando Bloom), and the struggles and defiance of Captain Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush) and his cunning crew of the Black Pearl.
All this alongside funny moments provided by Lee Arenberg and Mackenzie Crook’s Pintel and Regetti, comedic cowardice from doting father Governor Weatherby Swann (Sir Jonathan Pryce), and smouldering yet puppy dog stares from Commodore James Norrington (Jack Davenport). Not to mention, there’s so many iconic movie quotes and cursed treasure! What’s not to love?
As soon as the film began, the Melbourne audience was respectfully silent and hanging on the edge of their seats. For many, this was their first time experiencing a film concert. For me, this wasn’t, nor was it my first time seeing Pirates of the Caribbean performed with a live orchestra. But it’s been 12 years since I last saw it in such a wonderous environment, and it was honestly a very welcome return. For a film series I’ve loved for decades, I, like many, were super excited for this enchanting experience.
For those who have never been to a film concert before, film concerts are essentially the perfect marriage of both movies and live music. If you love a movie, a film concert is ideal to enjoy your favourite flick. If you’ve never seen the film before and decide to see it via a film concert experience, you’re living the dream. Also, as a live music fan, seeing talented musicians play a movie score live alongside a film is not only mighty impressive, but it is by far the best of both worlds.
It really felt like I was watching Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl for the first time. I must confess, it has been years since I last watched it and although I remembered some parts, a lot of the scenes I had quite forgotten, so I happily found myself surprised by many of the scenes again. This experience made me want to rewatch the rest of the series!
It’s crazy coming to the realisation of the importance of music in cinema. Music can make or break a film, can create heartful moments, joyful scenes, and bring suspense to the scene. At some parts, music can be hopeful, inspiring and make our hearts sing. I especially felt this way during my viewing when I frequently heard the Pirates of the Caribbean theme – ‘He’s A Pirate’ composed by Geoff Zanelli, Hans Zimmer, and Klaus Badelt throughout the movie. I can’t even begin to fathom the artistry, hard work, passion and talent to create such an iconic cinematic score.
Concluding to a rousing applause, with patrons beaming as they left the venue, Symphonic Events Presents successfully provided Melbourne audiences with a wonderful movie and music experience, pleasing generations of fans in a special Pirates of the Caribbean journey that truly felt like a celebration for all.
Symphonic Events Presents held Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl – Live In Concert at The Plenary, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) on Saturday February 8th at 7pm and Sunday February 9th at 1pm. Although the Pirates of the Caribbean concerts may be over for Melbourne, there are more Symphonic Events Presents film concerts coming up nationally in the not too distant future.
For more information and ticketing, please visit:
https://symphoniccinemapresents.com.au
https://symphoniccinemapresents.com.au/pirates-of-the-caribbean