Wow!!

Rating: 10/10 (23 December 2005)

From the moment I saw the names Tim Burton, Johnny Depp and Danny Elfman all accredited to the same film, I knew it would be a fantastic movie..............I was not disappointed. When you combine the pure genius of Burtons visuals, with Depps acting and Elfmans musical genius, it is impossible not to create a magical, enchanting and thoroughly memorable film.
Burton and Depp have worked together a few times now (Edward Sissor Hands, Ed Wood and Sleepy Hollow), this is their fourth film together, and they just keep getting better (The Corpse Bride came after the film I am discussing). This film is much truer to Roald Dahl's classic book than the original, resulting in a darker film, even slightly disturbing in places, but it is all part of the fun. Burton and Dahl are so alike in their eccentricities and quite warped imaginations, that Burton is the obvious choice to direct the film. The visuals are stunning and will leave you wanting more. Wonka, at times, appears a little twisted, yet somehow he is likable and you end up caring about the two main characters; Charlie and Wonka. This is mainly due to Johnny Depps original and touching portrayal of Wonka. Depp has worked with Freddie Highmore (Charlie) before, in Finding Netherland. These two actors have amazing chemistry, and the bond that slowly forms between them throughout the film is utterly believable.
I saw this film on the big screen, then bought it asap on DVD, I can not get enough of it. If you want your senses stimulated then this is the film for you, it has fabulous music, amazing visuals and you can almost taste the chocolate. This is a film for all the family, the children will love the fairly simple plot and breathtaking scenery, but the grown ups will relish the innuendo's and intelligent but subtle adult humour. I implore all those with any imagination to speak of to watch this film, you will not be disappointed.