Depp steals the show in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Tim Burton
Johnny Depp, David Kelly, Freddie Highmore
PG.
A re-make of the classic Roald Dahl Willy Wonka, now in the hands of a director usually to be relied upon for finding the off-beat and startling.
Alas, Burton doesn't quite manage it here, there's none of his customary originality in the tale of the little lad who wins a trip to the most wonderful choccy factory in the world and finds all manner of adventures therein.
Naturally, it's Depp who steals the show as the eccentric Wonka, all strange tics and leering sneers. Though he does manage to come across as Michael Jackson in full flight. Frightening or what!
Highmore, as Charlie, was brought to the film after starring with Depp in Finding Neverland, but finds nothing strong enough in his part to work with. It's as though he isn't really part of the film for most of the time.
This chocolate turns out to be too bitter for real enjoyment. Pity, since the hype led us to expect much more.
3/5
