Burton, Depp deliver a Sweet Experience!

Rating: 10/10 (15 July 2005)

Although my intentions of seeing this movie was purely to see the of the ingenious acting of Johnny Depp, I was surprised to enjoy not only Johnny, but the unbelievable job of child star Freddie Highmore and the world of Wonkaland created by director Tim Burton.
Growing up as a child, I loved the original film. You always hear, 'it's a classic' and can never be remade...Tim Burton has made it possible, and done it flawlessly. With a twist of odd humor and psychedelic color, Burton has put the original happy version together with his own instincts. He's added an eerie factor to the character of Wonka and his secret factory. The curiosity of the children and the oddness of Wonka's character is definitely more 'realistic' but of course, Burton has added his own spin on the setting, colors, and design. Although I did miss a few elements such as the musical of 'I've Got the Golden Ticket' and the unforgettable 'Oompa Loompa song', Burton has jazzed up the film into it's true potential. He much more closely follows Dahl's book, but uses the updated technology of today.
Overall, It's funny, to parents and children alike. Johnny Depp has transformed himself from a dashing, drunk Jack Sparrow, into an out-of-sorts, secluded,troubled, Willy Wonka. His resemblance, to anyone, is that of his former Burton character, Edward Scissorhands. Burton uses this remake to greatly expand on the life of Wonka, reaching into his past relationship with is own parents. Truly, at the end of this movie, you feel the story is complete.
It was definitely an enjoyable experience. Burton & Depp left the sold-out audience clapping as the credits rolled with a smile on their face. Hopefully, it will you too!