5. Tim Burton

Why him? There’s no denying he’s got the visual and stylistic chops to bring something fresh to the franchise.

Can you imagine a port, big boat or sea-monster gang designed by Burton’s team? It would be a sight to behold. And the merchandise / Burger King tie-in would be incredible.

Why not him? He’d insist on Johnny Depp in the starring role as usual… Wait, what? Oh, right. Never mind, then.

But his fantasy-tinged work has gotten patchier over time. Sweeny Todd wasn’t his best, Charlie And The Chocolate Factory was okay and the less said about those damn dirty apes, the better.

Sample Jerry Bruckheimer note: “Jesus Christ, Tim? Does it have to be so dark? I can barely see Johnny in half of these shots. And are you really married to the idea of Helena Bonham Carter cross-dressing as Jack’s brother?” 

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