Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-Man it must be fun to work in a factory!
Talk about high-expectations Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is one of the most beloved films in history. Nearly everyone in Western Civilization remembers seeing this off-beat film and if you were a child when you first saw the film, no doubt many of the visuals have probably stayed with you throughout your lifetime. Those are mighty big expectations indeed and a scary proposition for any director, writer actor or studio. The core story, of the enigmatic Wonka opening up his factory to the handful of lucky children who receive a golden ticket hidden within one of his chocolate bars, resonates with people of all ages. It must have been rather intense for all involved remaking the classic 1971 film staring the late Gene Wilder.
This film simply works on almost every level. First and foremost the acting is first rate. Johnny Depp as Willie Wonka is superb and more than likely immortalized for coming generations. The supporting cast is uniquely strong with excellent performances put in by all involved. Of special note are Freddie Highmore who plays Charlie Bucket, David Kelly of Waking Ned Devine fame who plays Grandpa Joe and Missi Pyle who nearly steals her scenes as Scarlett Beauregarde. Deep Roy as The Oompa-Loompas was brilliant.
The look of the film is Wonka all the way and maintains the visual uniqueness that audiences have come to expect from the original film. The rich and vivid colors of the factory contrast wonderfully with the stark backdrop of the city and Charlie’s pitiful home. A special salutation must be given to all the people behind the scenes from the set designers to the visual effects crew to the prop makers. Some of the full-sized sets are worth the price of admission alone. This crew earned every dime they were paid and probably a hell of a lot more.
Of course, a big nod goes to Tim Burton, who proves with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, that if nothing else he has the keen ability to create visually unique world’s that stick with the audience long after leaving the theater. In this sense, Burton was perhaps the perfect fit for a modernized remake of the film.
Truly, this is one of those unique films that hits most of its targets. Some have criticized the script for diving into Wonka’s childhood, but I feel that this gives the film a overall substance and texture it would have otherwise been lacking.
Now, believe it or not, for the negative-and I am going to get all academic on your asses. The negatives largely center on the original book by Roald Dahl. Let me put it bluntly, the factory as a magical place where magical things happen, where children are dying to go hang out, if even for one day, well that is more than a little irritating. Come to thank of it the children are even victims of workplace accidents; accidents that occur from not obeying the rules. Just so you know, bad things happening to kids who don’t follow the rules, this is a reoccurring theme in films. Don’t believe me check out my Final Destination 4 review. Maybe this was all taking place on the subconscious level for Dahl, maybe not, I don’t know, don’t care, I just know its there.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is simply a marvelous modernization of the original. Depp does a fantastic job as Wonka giving him a Michael Jackson sort of creepiness that many will instantly identify. I just can’t shake the bad taste of having a book and a movie, largely focused at children, be so enthusiastic about working at the factory. So let’s recap, factory work is fun, fun, fun and there are dangers but only if you don’t follow the rules set up by the factory management. The rich, like Wonka, may be a little weird but they know what’s best for you. Their rules are only born out of a deep, paternalistic care for your safety. Hey, if you want regular wimpy ass reviews, they’re out there. Regardless, don’t miss this one.
Story A
Acting A
Visuals A
Originality/Innovation A
Enjoyability Grade A
Overall Grade A
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