directed by Tim Burton
Since I told you about “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” (1971) yesterday, I guess it’s time to discuss the remake. There’s no point in telling you what the story is about, because you either know it or if not, you can read yesterday’s post, because it’s exactly the same. Today, I’d like to focus more on the fact that Burton’s version is really underrated, in my opinion. So the original film, as I said yesterday, was way too nice for me. Oh and be careful, because there will be many SPOILERS. So Willy Wonka is this strange guy living on his own in a big factory, which looks like a real heaven for children. He makes delicious sweets and children love him for that. However, when children visit him, he acts as if he didn’t care about them, then gets furious at the end (even though he seemed like a peaceful person for the whole tour) and finally he gives the factory to Charlie. A child. Do you see what I mean? For me the character of Wonka in the old film doesn’t make sense. Of course, it’s fantasy, but comparing to Wonka from Burton’s version, he’s horribly irrational. However, Burton’s Wonka is perfectly written, in my opinion. He’s lonely, living without his family, he hates people because everybody has let him down and he’s consistent as a character. Besides, at the end he proposes Charlie to live with him in the factory, but the boy chooses his family over this huge eatable playground. And that’s the moment when it hits Wonka and he grows as a character. I have to admit that I saw Burton’s version first, so don’t judge me. Yet, when I was watching Stuart’s version, I was so disappointed with the character of Wonka (not acting to be clear) and the ending. I think that Burton showed the real potential of this story, while Stuart made a cute adaptation for children. And I absolutely admire both filmmakers for working with this book, because I think it’s awesome and I’m sure a lot of viewers grew up watching Willy Wonka in the 70s. Still, I’m definitely more team Burton and I wished more people appreciated his version, despite the fact it’s a remake of an absolute classic. Besides, Johnny Depp is marvellous in this role. It’s probably one of his best. And let’s all clap our hands for David Kelly, who played Grandpa Joe. What an adorable man, I swear!
My rating: 9/10
S.
I have nothing to watch 