What a refreshing change! Nice to see something good in the cinema again.

Rating: 9/10 (24 August 2005)

I grew up with the original film (never growing tired of it), and I always loved Gene Wilder's acting. I had also read the books, so I was very dubious about a new film, considering some of the remakes that have left a bad taste. I read reviews that said it was not a remake, but a new interpretation of the story. As the film started, I did not at first know what to make of it. It did not take long though to realise that I was watching something special. Depp is nothing short of brilliant in the role of Wonka. I have not laughed so much in a long time. His constant "Mumbling" comments to Mike TV in response to his baffling scientific statements was hilarious. Also the line "You're weird!" had me in stitches.
Tim Burtons sets and use of colour were great. It had a slight feel of "Edward Scissor Hands".
All of the cast were brilliant. The Oompa Lumpas were different to the originals, but still very funny. It was also nice to see Christopher Lee again on the big screen.
I always ranked the original film as a children's classic along with "The Wizard of Oz", "Chitty, Chitty, Bang, Bang" or "Mary Poppins" etc.., but I must say that this new film has earned it's place in this hall of fame.
I will definitely buy the DVD when it comes out.