Hilarious, but Heartfelt

Rating: 10/10 (15 July 2005)

You can love both the Wilder version and the Depp version -- even wilder than Wilder -- of Willy Wonka! Depp has said his Wonka is a combination of Mr. Rogers and Wink Martindale, perfect for someone who has spent too much time alone. Of course, the boy from Finding Neverland, Freddie Highmore, is fabulous again as Charlie. What a talented little boy. And as his grandfather, the wonderful David Kelly, who we loved as the gypsy grandfather in Into the West and the aging convict in Greenfingers. Tim Burton has endless imagination. This beautiful movie will appeal to all ages and will become a beloved classic in its own right.