Exploring Plot Points and 'Plot Holes' in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales has been a source of much discussion among fans since its release, particularly regarding a few notable plot points that some consider as potential 'plot holes.' In this article, we will explore two significant plot points in the film and attempt to resolve some of the confusion that these plot points bring.

Compass Timeline: A Key Plot Device

One of the most discussed aspects of the film is the compass used by Captain Jack Sparrow. The compass plays a pivotal role in various points throughout the series, indicating what Jack Sparrow desires most. In Dead Men Tell No Tales, it is revealed that Jack's greatest desire is to find the Trident of Poseidon.

Issue

Throughout the series, the compass has exhibited unpredictable behavior, sometimes influenced by Jack's emotional state. There is a particular inconsistency noted when the compass suddenly becomes clear about its purpose, seemingly undermining its established mystique. For instance, in the film, Jack is given a compass by a dying captain, yet earlier in the series, Tia Dalma claims that Jack bartered with her to gain the compass.

Implication

This inconsistency raises questions about the established rules governing the compass. Is it a tool of fate, a device with a mind of its own, or consistently influenced by its user's emotions? The sudden clarity of its purpose may seem to undermine the established mystique, making it difficult for fans to reconcile the compass's behavior.

Solution

Some viewers argue that these contradictions can be explained. For example, Jack could have lost the compass and it was later found by Tia Dalma, who made a deal to return it to him. Alternatively, Jack could have lent the compass to someone else, secure in the knowledge that he would regain it, knowing full well that his actions would lead to its return. In the context of a story where Jack repeatedly tricks and outmaneuvers others, his actions with the compass can be seen as part of his overall plan to achieve his goals.

Analysis

In Dead Men’s Chest, Will I at World’s End, and On Stranger Tides, Jack gives the compass to Elizabeth and Gibbs respectively, knowing that the complex circumstances surrounding the return of the compass would ensure his triumph. As for Salazar, Jack uses the compass to trick him into a perilous situation, not with the intention of setting him free, but to trap him. Thus, the compass did not betray him in the traditional sense; rather, Jack's own schemes led to Salazar's fate.

The Wicked Wench Timeline: A Mystery Unraveled

The Wicked Wench is another central element of the series, with a fascinating backstory that spans the entire franchise. Originally named the Wicked Wench, the ship was burned by the East India Trading Company, but it was later resurrected by Davy Jones and renamed the Black Pearl. The storyline surrounding this ship is complex and has been a subject of much debate among fans.

Issue

One of the main issues lies in the timeline of the ship’s fate and its resurrection. The film implies a connection between Jack Sparrow and the ship, yet it does not fully explain how the Wicked Wench became the Black Pearl or how Jack maintained a connection to it throughout his life. This creates confusion about the continuity of Jack's history with the ship and how it fits into the established lore of the series.

Implication

The lack of clarity on the ship's evolution raises questions about the timeline of events and the consequences of previous films. How did the Wicked Wench become the Black Pearl? Who orchestrated its resurrection, and how did Jack maintain a link to it?

Solution

There are several possible explanations for these inconsistencies. For example, Jack could have still been the captain of the Wicked Wench but sold it to the East India Trading Company, who then agreed to allow him to continue sailing under that name. Alternatively, after being offloaded at a port, Jack could have decided he no longer wanted to sail on the Wicked Wench, leading to its capture by the East India Trading Company. By a twist of fate, Jack could have been reassigned to that very ship.

While these explanations are speculative and may not cover all the details, they do suggest that the inconsistencies may not be as significant as they appear at first glance.

Concluding Thoughts

Both the compass timeline and the Wicked Wench storyline, while they may appear as potential 'plot holes' to some, are actually rich areas for interpretation. The unpredictability of the compass and the complexities of the Wicked Wench's history can be seen as intentional storytelling choices rather than mistakes. These elements add depth and intrigue to the narrative, opening up new possibilities for future stories in the franchise.

Ultimately, while some plot points may be coincidences or simply not addressed in full, they are not as detrimental to the overall story as they might initially seem. Fans can enjoy these elements as part of the rich tapestry of the Pirates of the Caribbean universe, exploring the mysteries and contradictions that make the series so compelling.

Key Takeaways

- Comprehending the compass timeline through the lens of Jack's intentions and strategies can mitigate the perceived plot holes.

- Exploring the Wicked Wench's evolution through possible plot scenarios can align with the established lore.

- Considering both points as rich storytelling elements can provide a deeper appreciation for the franchise.