Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Sweet!!!

When first I heard that Tim Burton would be filming a new version of Roald Dohl's "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory", I had visions of satanic oompa-loompas and decapitated children flashing through my horrified mind. What good could come of a meeting between such a wonderful children's tale, and such a dark and twisted individual as Tim Burton? However, after a few moments reflection, I decided to give it a try because I think Johhny Depp is such a fine actor and I was curious to see how this movie could stand up to the cult classic of "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory starring Gene Wilder.

In comparing the classic "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" to this newer version "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" (whose title is taken straight from the book), several differences stand out immediately. In this version they use squirrels instead of geese, the deletion of the fizzy lifting drink scene, and Wonka's insane quirkiness (much more than the sardonic Wonka portrayed by Gene Wilder). Yet similarities remain, some line for line ("Violet! You're turning violet, Violet!!"). The older movie starring Wilder is definitely more of a musical and more uplifting throughout the film. Although, the psychedelic boat ride in "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" is more intense than Burton depicts in this movie.

Most of the Burton film is drawn directly from the book. For example, there is a Mr. Bucket (Charlie's dad), the squirrels, etc. that are all taken from the book. In some ways it is a more accurate depiction, on a line for line basis of the book. The most noticeable addition to this version of the story is background. We are finally given insight in the history and hysteria of Wonka's chocolatiering in its early stages, even glimpses of Willy in his early years. Depsite the fact that Burton's tale is almost fairy-talesque, it even goes beyond the glass elevator which ends the original film. This helps to provide explanations briefly which is in the context of the overall feel-good tale.

The imagery was great. I would have to say that this is one of the best movies that I've ever seen. Johnny Depp's performance in this film is dead-on to what I think of when I think of a dark Willy Wonka. And no, Johnny Depp is not Gene Wilder and Mel Stuart(director of the original "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory") is certainly not Tim Burton. Yes, I will agree that the original film is a cult classic and should be treated like that, but it's not the same movie and it's not the same feel. The overall feel of this movie is much more uplifting than I had anticipated. Not knowing what to expect when I entered the theater, I found not a remake, not necessarily a film version of the book, but a new twist on what will undoubtedly become a classic tale for decades to follow.