Burton does it again

Many thought this movie should be filed under 'never should have been remade' because the original was such a classic. During filming, even the producers and Depp were nervous about how it would be received, because it was quite an expensive movie to make and remaking a classic is a very touchy subject. Imagine someone re-making NeverEnding Story, for example. And Gene Wilder, star of the original, was apparently quite hostile towards this film as well.

But I saw this film with a clear viewpoint; as shocking as it may be, I've never seen the original - only heard about it and knew its famous catchy oompa loompa tune. lol

And I must say, I absolutely love this Burton version of 'willy wonka and the chocolate factory'. The effects were amazing, weird, and very wacky, typical for anything that Burton touches, but I also loved the storyline and all the cast's performances were perfect. Depp especially was beyond perfect as the eccentric chocolate factory recluse, but even all the child actors were each so unique and so well played. My applause goes to the casting folks that managed to find all these young stars.

Now I can't write a review on this and not compare it to the original film, so I did watch the 'Willy Wonka' shortly after I saw 'Charlie' and even though it may cause big disagreements, here's my opinion on the two: I think Willy Wonka may have been good for its time, but it simply doesn't hold a chance versus it's much more superior Burton remake. I found Wilder's character too insane, angry, and at times just plain annoying, while Depp's character was pure eccentric and crazy, while still retaining a great feel of a 'kid that won't grow up'. And Freddie Highmore is beyond compare leaps and bounds better than his earlier equivalent child star. The kid from the original was way too whinny, i found. Also, the effects were much better (no surprise there - technology helps so much these days) but also the songs found throughout were funnier and a lot more entertaining. And this version also has a lot more subtle humor and comedy than the original; even though both are clearly 'family friendly' films, I think adults would find 'Charlie' version more watchable.

9/10