A remake unlike no other...

Rating: 8/10 (7 September 2005)

Sorry to all those Johnny Depp fans out there but I went into this film with a lot of expectations and was concerned greatly whether he could carry off the role of Willy Wonka. I have never been a fan of his however I was very much impressed. What a show it was! He did an interview with one of our late shows here (Equivelant in USA to your David Letterman etc.) over satellite and said that as soon as he got the part to the movie he stopped watching the original with his kids. He wanted a fresh new approach to the character of Willy Wonka, and that, he DID! He came off eccentric and clever. I did feel however some of the dialogue that was used from the original film was not well brought across to the new screen. It was satisfactory however still entertaining and humorous. I am like many of the fans out of there of the original film. Nothing will beat the original. I also believe this film is more true to the original book. Not ever reading the book I cannot comment on this.
The sets were colourful to be expected with some new scenes. However those expecting to see Charlie and his Grandfather floating to the ceiling in the bubble scene will be disappointed. In this movie, Charlie is always the good boy placing his family first.
What can i say about this film. Well i loved it. Since i am now father to a 5 year old son, I have watched the original over and over again now as an adult. It brings me back being a child again. I escape in the magic of it all. The new film was no exception to the rule. I know remakes have been very fashionable in the last 5-10 years and original ideas are becoming more rare every day, this is one remake you WILL want to go and see.
Johnny, you did well. I loved the casting of the old Grandfather. Anyone remember Waking Ned Divine??? I believe it was the same guy.
Go see it. Whether you are a parent or not or with children or not you will enjoy it. A MUST SEE!!!