Saturday, July 16, 2005

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory


I went to the movies this morning (yes 10:15am) and saw Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Comparing it to the movie that came out 1971 Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory it gives a better background on why Willy Wonka is the way he is and how he came to start his own candy factory. The 70's version stars the candy and this version stars more of the characters developement. When I saw the previews for this movie I found Johnny Depp's voice a bit annoying but after watching the film his voice is perfect. He is such a wise ass in this film it's really funny. The comedy in this version compared to the 1971 version is definitely catered more for adults. The music isn't as catchy or as classic as the previous version. The songs will stick in your head for a day or so but they don't compare to "oompa oompa doopa dee doo".
Overall I think the Johnny Depp version is better than the original. The reason I find it a better film is the character developement and the humor.

Sincerely Yours,
Gregg

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

A DIFFERENT POINT OF VIEW

Unlike Gregg, I never saw the original Willy Wonka (and I'm older than Gregg). So for me, I had nothing to compare it to and it was a "virginal" experience for me. Even though I knew Charlie would get the golden ticket, I was held in suspense as I rooted for him on the 3rd try.

This movie is dark and I agree with Gregg that the humor is directed towards adults: "Don't touch that squirrel's nuts."

The special effects are classic Tim Burton. He actually created the inside of the factory (with the grass, the candies, the chocolate river and waterfall) as opposed to using the popular green screen technique.

Johnny Depp was perfect as Willy Wonka and the little boy who played Charlie fit the character to a tee. (They also worked together on Finding Neverland).
The Oompa Loompa guy was exotic and interesting looking. I think they could've used more humor for him. All the characters were likable and the evil kids did such a good job that you end up hating them, but that's just good casting to me.

The only criticism I have is that Johnny Depp reminded me a bit of his character in Edward Scissorhands (another Tim Burton film). He also reminded me of Michael Jackson - he doesn't grow up, he creates this Neverland Ranch, and hangs out with little children. A little eerie for me.

I loved the story and I loved the movie. I'm a bit scared to watch the original in fear of disappointment.

- SS out