What a wonderful film. Totally exceeded expectations.

Rating: 10/10 (15 July 2005)

When I first saw the trailers for this, I thought it looked pretty bad. I am a huge fan of Tim Burton, so I had no doubt it would be interesting, but for the most part, it just looked pretty stupid. But, let me tell you, the trailers are misleading. Any stupid one liners you hear in the trailers or on-line or where ever, are totally hilarious when put into context with the film. The script is well written, and Depp is perfect for the role of the brooding, semi creepy anti social Willy Wonka. The music is wonderful, and captures the crazy world the Dahl created and Burton put onto the silver screen perfectly. With your classic Danny Elfman music, mixed in with some little electronic bleeps and bloops (similar to Invader Zim) the soundtrack is great. The characters, though I felt that we did not see much of them (with the exception of Willy Wonka and Charlie Bucket) were well cast and seemingly perfect for the roles that they portray. The sets are colorful and fun, and very imaginative along with some interesting flashbacks that give us some deep insight on the past of Willy Wonka. Roy Deep makes a perfect Oompa Loompa, and the songs that accompany his appearance are really crazy and cool, and the lyrics are also straight from the book. So, all in all, I think this is a fantastic film. Perhaps Burtons best work since Batman Returns. I had my doubts, but PLEASE don't judge this movie on what you see in the ads. Go see it, and then pass judgement on it. I had a blast. It is a lighthearted, kind of dark fantasy that will appeal to almost anyone. So, give it a chance.