Let me begin this review of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” by stating that I don’t really care for the first film adaptation of Roald Dahl’s book, titled “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” (the film, not the book; the book shares its title with the newer film). While Gene Wilder was certainly charming as Wonka, the film just didn’t get the tone or attitude of Dahl’s classic children’s story right – not at all. Director Tim Burton’s version, however, hits the proverbial nail on the head. It is a film of fantastical wonders, seeming with a wonderfully giddy (and a tad creepy) – vibe. “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is, in my mind, the best Tim Burton film since the great “Edward Scissorhands.”
First, I must say that though there are factors in this film that could lead one to equate Johnny Depp’s version of Willy Wonka with Michael Jackson, this Wonka isn’t at all like Jackson. One must remember this vital piece of information, made painfully obvious to even the casual viewer by simply watching the film: Wonka does not like children; Jackson likes them a bit much. That fact alone negates the Wonka-Jackson rumblings, and yet I know they will continue, for people like to gossip about such things. But if you take anything from my review, dear reader, please go away knowing that these rumblings are pure rubbish – Depp’s performance is, as always, simply brilliant. Yes, his Wonka is certainly a bit strange, creepy even; but that is quite appropriate, as the Wonka of the novel is the same. No, the added (unnecessary) back-story about Wonka doesn’t quite justify his various character quirks (or flaws, depending on your viewpoint), but that doesn’t change the fact that Depp got it right. Maybe more people should just shut up and read the bloody book…
OK, enough about the wonderful Mr. Depp. Let us move on the rest of the cast, shall we? Young Freddie Highmore nails the part of Charlie Bucket, the only bit of normalcy in a world of insanity. We identify early on with Charlie, because Highmore plays him like a regular, everyday boy – like that poor, unfortunate kid we all knew in school. Even if Johnny Depp had completely missed the mark with Willy Wonka, Highmore’s performance alone would have saved the picture – yes, it is that good. The rest of the cast is equally delightful, especially Julia Winter as the self-absorbed brat Veruca Salt. I also highly enjoyed watching Mike Teavee, played by Jordan Fry. He reminded me so much of a little snot I knew in elementary school…
Do I even need to mention that the film is visually dazzling? This is, after all, a Tim Burton film; even his “Planet of the Apes,” as mediocre as it may have been, looked spectacular. Charlie’s home is probably the most inventive set of the film; its odd angles, insanely small size, and over-exaggerated drabness makes it the most cartoonish piece of the film – and that’s saying something, when compared to the outlandish Wonka factory. And yes, the factory is wonderful; though it is quite similar to the factory in “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” it is more than the makers of that little picture could even have hoped. The river of chocolate actually looks like chocolate; the grass, plants, and the like actually look edible; and the glass elevator? Well, you’ll just have to see for yourself.
The Oompa Loompas, all played by Deep Roy (yes, that’s his actual name), are quite charming – more so than the scary little freaks in the original incarnation of “Charlie.” Their song and dance numbers are absolutely delightful, all composed and sung by Danny Elfman (as is the rest of the film’s score, as in all Tim Burton films). You might just find yourself walking out of the theater quietly singing a number or two – I know I did. The score is, of course, equally fantastic; could anyone honestly expect any less from the great Elfman? I know I’ll be picking up a copy of the score as soon as possible.
All in all, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is a vastly superior film to its predecessor. It has a strong cast, a brilliant production design, and one of the coolest (and, dare I say, cutest) scores in ages. Film lovers will be delighted; Tim Burton fans will be think they’ve reached nirvana. The average movie-goer will have a damn good time. Which category do you fall under? Why not check out the film and see for yourself? You will most certainly not be disappointed!
– Isorion
- Interview with J.R. Bookwalter - January 22, 2015
- Interview with Andrew J. Rausch - January 22, 2015
- Interview with Rick Popko and Dan West - January 22, 2015
- Interview with Director Stevan Mena (Malevolence) - January 22, 2015
- Interview with Screenwriter Jeffery Reddick (Day of the Dead 2007) - January 22, 2015
- Teleconference interview with Mick Garris (Masters of Horror) - January 22, 2015
- A Day at the Morgue with Corri English (Unrest) - January 22, 2015
- Interview with Writer/Director Nacho Cerda (The Abandoned, Aftermath) - January 22, 2015
- Interview with Actress Thora Birch (Dark Corners, The Hole, American Beauty) - January 22, 2015
- Interview with Actor Jason Behr, Plus Skinwalkers Press Coverage - January 22, 2015
