The original plan for Norrington in POTC would have removed tension from the first film’s climax, with the Commodore making questionable decisions.
The original plan for Norrington (Jack Davenport) in Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl would have significantly changed the film’s ending. Disney’s 2003 swashbuckling blockbuster was a massive success, creating a roster of memorable, tragic characters whose stories span multiple films. However, some characters underwent considerable changes from script to screen.
Commodore James Norrington is initially a secondary antagonist in Pirates of the Caribbean, self-righteous and rigid in his views on law and order. Although he deeply loves Elizabeth (Keira Knightley) and sets out to rescue her in the first film, he hopelessly competes against dashing rival Will Turner (Orlando Bloom). He ultimately helps the heroes defeat the Black Pearl’s cursed crew. He both accepts Will and Elizabeth’s love despite the former’s crimes and allows Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) a head start in his escape from Port Royal.
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