Review of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005) by Ben B — 31 Jul 2014

A freaky fantasy that only could be a creation of Tim Burton and yet remarkably family-friendly, Charlie and The Chocolate Factory is a brilliantly imagined story that fascinates with its simplicity, awkwardness, splendid performances and unforgettable Tim-Burton-ian style. Already a classic, it is a movie which is far from being perfect, but has managed to please the old fans of the story as well as to earn new ones.

The funny and heart-warming adventure of Charlie (Freddie Highmore) who receives the unique chance to enter the mysterious chocolate factory of Willy Wonka (Johnny Depp) and compete for the opportunity to become Willy's right hand in the chocolate manufacturing. A well-known story, this adaptation would not have been that remarkable without the influence of Tim Burton and his unique directing style. Visually stunning, much darker than a normal family-friendly story and with quite awkward performance of Depp as Willy Wonka, Burton's version of the book impresses not with its content but with its overall concept.

The huge impact of Burton's visual and performances concept on the audience has partially negative effect on the audience, as the attention is director much more towards his direction of the movie, than the story itself. The level of awkwardness and eccentricity, coming especially from Johnny Depp, might be too much for some, but for the fans of Tim Burton that would be a reason to feel delighted!

Stylish and bold, Charlie and The Chocolate Factory could have been the perfect family movie, if it was not for its eccentricity. Nevertheless, it delivers a sweet and funny adventure that could be considered to be one of Burton and Depp's greatest successes.