Review of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005) by Kevin H — 23 Feb 2018
The claim is that this version follows the book more closely. Maybe that's accurate concerning the storyline, but hardly in spirit. The nasty and overbearing children, who are sent off one-by-one to their earned punishments, appear unscathed and no worse for wear. In other words, no lessons learned and no redemptive value.
Certainly, this version has all the bells and whistles, but these cinematic delights cannot make up for the lack of mystic that sweeps viewers into the chocolate factory in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. That is where Tim Burton's version comes up miles short.
Lest we forget Johnny Depp (who is adored by critics for playing oddball roles), I would say this version of Wonka is a bust. Gene Wilder's Wonka, makes us want to be at the factory. There is excitement around every corner because Wonka makes us believe.
Watch the original. It's probably cheaper anyway.
This review of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005) was written by Kevin H on 23 February 2018.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has generally received positive reviews.
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