Films/DVD Asylum

Posted by WinthorpeIII (A) on July 23, 2005 at 11:43:49

In Reply to: Review: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory posted by jbmcb on July 16, 2005 at 19:52:57:

I saw this yesterday afternoon.

A good friend of mine has a problem with classics being remade. It generally does not bother me and I try to enjoy the new film for what it offers -- even if very little. This was a case where the impression of the original was so strong and memorable that the comparison was inevitable and problematic.

I'm a big fan of the original and even occasionally listen to the soundtrack on LP. The score and songs were truly classic material. The new movie came up with its own songs, but nothing too memorable or moving.

I considered the new movie conceptually flawed in a few ways and thought it was a shame to put such a dark twist on a movie for kids. Some of the actors were decently cast, though I didn't feel there was enough differentiation between Veruka Salt and Violet Beauregarde. The movie was not without humor and entertainment value though.

Still, I thought it was a shame and thought "Why bother?" Tim Burton must have signed on to the sure money maker to have a sure money maker for himself. I've never been much of a fan of his.
For me:

original: 4 stars and a true classic
new film: 2 1/2 stars and forgettable

Depp was certainly interesting, but the character didn't create the kind of joy and wonder that Gene Wilder did. No comparison there either.