'Even I'm eatable... But that is called cannibalism, my dear children, and is in fact frowned upon in most societies.'

Rating: 10/10 (3 April 2020)

Opening with a beautifully orchestrated score by Danny Elfman and narration by Geoffrey Holder, Burton's version of the classic story by Roald Dahl is a match made in heaven. There is naturally always going to be comparisons made between this one and the legendary 1971 version starring Gene Wilder and Peter Ostrum, but they are made in very different styles. Here we have the musical aspect still intact provided by the Oompa Loompas (played brilliantly by Deep Roy!) and there are just as memorable original sequences here rather than replicas of the 70s musical numbers which is a wise move. It's very much a faithful adaptation of the book just as the original was and also expands upon it. The thing that makes this version stand out is the fleshing out of Wonka's backstory; why did Willy cast himself out and isolate himself from the outside world and where did his confectionary genius develop? These ideas are explored really well by screenwriter John August and Burton's and Depp's imaginations put together. Johnny Depp is just great as Wonka and produces a really eccentric, slightly creepy and darkly comic performance that taps into the more insecure side of Willy's psyche. The entire cast are great from the wonderful Freddie Highmore as Charlie, David Kelly as Grandpa Joe, all the kids and Christopher Lee as Wilbur Wonka. I remember loving the way it played with expectations upon first watch; from Wonka's seemingly random flashbacks to the offbeat interactions between in characters within the factory. A truly wonderful adaptation; funny, dark and magical with a hint of mischief