Choc-Factory remake is a non-success for me!

Rating: 4/10 (30 July 2005)

Recently watched the remake of Charlie And The Chocolate factory with eager anticipation. As a Child I loved Roald Dahl books and also the 1970's version was magical to me. So in retrospect the new one had a lot to live up to! Unfortunately in my eyes it failed to deliver the goods. Johnny Depp is a fantastic actor, no one can deny that, his portray of Capt Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Carribbean was nothing short of pure genius. Depp's Wonka, however, is wrong. Gone is the magical and mysterious Wonka portrayed by the charismatic Gene Wilder, here is some-kind of camp, feminine version more Michael Jackson than anything. Depp's Wonka has an great deal less presence and stature in the movie, far far far to cheerleader-like - this would surely have had old Dahl turning in his grave! To sum up, the new movie is far less entertaining and colourful than the 70's original - as a boy it was more so believable and amazing - it still is, but unfortunately this version is too dark and uncomfortable for me. There are some funny moments - particularly when the ooompa loompa's (played by one actor - very clever trick photography) are involved - but the changing of certain key story lines and Depp's portrayal of Wonka was the negative aspects. He could have done it so much better!