Splendid movie

Rating: 10/10 (21 July 2005)

I guess I should preface this comment with the fact that I am one of Depp's biggest fans and therefore already biased. I am also a huge fan of the original Gene Wilder movie. I did not listen to or hear any reviews prior to seeing the film (I rarely do with any film), however, knowing that Tim Burton had directed it already gave me an advantage. Any true film-lover would understand that Burton's style is anything if it isn't dark. After all, this is the same brilliant mind that brought us 'Sleepy Hollow' and 'Planet of the Apes', neither of which I would consider kid-friendly.
The film closely depicted the book by Roald Dahl, so anyone who has read this will have a great idea of what to expect. If you are going to the movie with the expectation of seeing a remake of Mel Stuart's original, keep your money because it won't happen.
As for bringing the children along, I would say yes, they would enjoy it, if for no other reason, than to take in the amazing cinematography and art direction. The colors are fantastic and would be most appreciated by a younger audience. I would just expect a few questions along the way...some whose answers may not be within their grasp yet.
As for myself, I look forward to proudly displaying the DVD on my shelf right next to the original.