Review: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

I have never read the book, although I should make the effort. I love the first interpretation with Gene Wilder. I am a big fan of Tim Burton's films, including Mars Attacks and Planet of the Apes. I am a big fan of Johnny Depp, and I am glad to see him finally getting some real attention. I like the idea of this fantasy story as a cautionary horror film for the youth of the world with Willy Wonka as the ringleader, offering temptation to the youth, much like a devil would (does?). That brings us to what did I think of this interpretation of the material. In short, it is fantastic.

Tim Burton's films, more often than not, have a rather antiseptic feel to them, and this is no different. But it works. I could take up the rest of this review comparing it to the earlier film, there are numerous convergences and divergences in visual style and plot points, but to do that really doesn't do either film any justice. Each film stands on its own.

The story is easy enough to follow. Willy Wonka hides 5 golden tickets in his candy bars which will grant access to his factory to those lucky enough to find one. We then watch as the first four are found. The first is found by the gluttonous Augustus Gloop, the second by the spoiled Veruca Salt, then the ultra-competitive Violet Beauregarde, and finally television addict Mike Teavee. Charlie Bucket is the last kid to discover his ticket.

The fateful day comes and the kids enter the factory, led on a twisted journey by the inimitable Johnny Depp, who brings his own take to the role.

I realize that there have been wildly mixed takes on this film, and in particular Depp's performance. I have none of those mixed feelings in me. I loved it. Johnny Depp's variety wasn't quite as menacing as I would have liked, but instead he brings forth this bizarre man-child who has some daddy issues and never really had an other relationships with kids. Thus, he pushes away from what he doesn't understand, choosing to live in his realm of candy making and Oompa Loompa's. The one liner delivery, the facial expressions, it was great, so wonderfully strange. He played off the kids well, offering his tempting treats.

Article Author: Chris Beaumont

Christopher Beaumont spends much of his time writing about music and movies when he isn't indulging in them. He is always ready to talk about his favorite form of entertainment and offer up recommendations. Follow: Twitter and Tumblr. Visit: Critical Outcast. …

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