Nightmare at the Chocolate Factory

Rating: 1/10 (17 July 2005)

When I first heard that Tim Burton and Johnny Depp were going to do their own version of Roald Dahl's Charlie And The Chocolate Factory, I was very intrigued. It seemed like a great idea. But, although I admire much of the work they've done in the past, I do think they've botched this one.
Burton's visuals are cool, but I get the feeling he was more interested in the LOOK of the film and should've paid more attention to the script and characterization. How hard can it be to adapt such a great story? I don't see how he can claim this version is faithful to Roald Dahl's book, when for instance, Burton decided to create a completely unnecessary "daddy issues" backstory for Willy Wonka. Not to mention the whole "Wonka hates children" idea. And various instances of inappropriate humour and disturbing imagery. If you want to make a darker, more "adult" Willy Wonka, don't market it to kids and families! But of course, then they wouldn't have a summer blockbuster.
Johnny Depp also disappoints, and I'm speaking as someone who thought Gene Wilder's Willy Wonka could use improvement. I was not a big fan of Wilder's film and I was hoping Depp would really capture the character as written in the book. Turns out, Gene Wilder was better, with his portrayal of Wonka's sly humour and mischievous nature. Johnny Depp's performance brings to mind characters he's played in the past, like Ed Wood. And, oh god, Michael Jackson. This is not a good thing. Just because Willy Wonka has been reclusive/secretive for years, does not mean he should be played as socially inept or creepy. Bad acting decision on Depp's part.
By the end of the film, we should be happy for Charlie escaping his miserable life and being rescued by Willy Wonka and his Chocolate Factory. So you know there's a BIG problem when you find yourself concerned for Charlie and urging him to get away from the freaky man. Especially since Wonka says Charlie can't bring his family to live at the Factory with them!
Please, people... just read the book and use your imagination. It really is the best way. We can't depend on Hollywood to get it right.