Elizabeth is soon rescued by Captain Jack Sparrow, a pirate who used to be the captain of the Black Pearl until his crew turned on him and left him on a deserted island. He has arrived at Port Royal to find a ship and a crew to try to reclaim the Black Pearl. After he rescues her, he is arrested for the crime of being a pirate. He quickly escapes and heads into the town, where he meets Will Turner.
Will Turner is a blacksmith who is in love with Elizabeth as well. He also holds a deep loathing for pirates, so when he discovers Jack Sparrow in his workshop, he tries to fight him off with the swords he has crafted. Jack Sparrow is eventually caught and taken to prison.
Later that night, the Black Pearl arrives in Port Royal. With cannons firing, the crew runs wild through the town. They go to the governors mansion. Elizabeth is soon taken on board the ship.
After learning of Elizabeth's capture, Will Turner will stop at nothing to get her back, even it meets breaking Jack Sparrow out of prison and joining league with a pirate. They commandeer a ship and set out after the Black Pearl.
While on the ship, Elizabeth soon learns the effect the curse has had on the crew, and she learns how they intend to break it once and for all.