Review of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971) by Francis L — 17 Feb 2012
Until I saw "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory", I really didn't have any opinion about this version. And actually, though both are based on the same story, they're really distinct from each other.
In the newer adaptation, Depp's Wonka actually shows how he came to be what he was. In this earlier version, there is no 'back story' - and that seems to make WIlder's Wonka even darker.
When Wilder utters (in a stunted, monotonal style): "No...wait...stop...don't", it's clear just how concerned he is about the 'real world'. And it's that cynicism which takes this above the "funny children's film" to the macabre adult level (though mainly appealing to the inner childish juvenile within each adult).
This review of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971) was written by Francis L on 17 Feb 2012.
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory has generally received very positive reviews.
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