draws you right in

Rating: 8/10 (14 October 2005)

I really liked this movie - it was so bizarre it just drew me right in. Todays CG technology really plays up well in this type of film, and the characters were well cast. The movie is close enough to the Gene Wilder version to be comfortable, yet adds enough new information (mostly from the book) to keep the attention. Depp's portrayal of Wonka is more disturbed than quirky - you actually feel a little sorry for him, and the boy playing Charlie does an excellent job. My kids loved it as well (aged 10 & 14). The characters of the other children invited to the factory are quite well played, very similar to the original. You get a glimpse into Wonka's past, a little understanding of what has made him the way he is. Note: you will either love or hate the Oompa Loompa music sequences...