I can be pretty harsh when it comes to reviewing remakes, but this film just happens to be what the original film was supposed to be ( Not to mention more true to the book). Surprised? Yes, me too.

The film is a remake of the 1971 film, starring Gene Wilder as the original Willy Wonka, who was a much different Willy than the one portrayed by Depp. The original film’s Wonka was creepy and almost evil at times.

In the new film, Charlie Bucket (Freddy Highmore, also featured in “Finding Neverland” with Depp), is a poor boy, who lives with his family in an old run-down shack. The legendary Willy Wonka (Johnny Depp) is always in the mind of his Grandpa Joe (David Kelly), a former employee of the famous candy factory. Many times Grandpa Joe tells Charlie stories about working at Wonka’s original store. Times have changed since those early days, and the once flourishing factory has lost its popularity with the public.

In order to revive interest in his candy, Willy Wonka decides to sponsor a contest. One day, posters appear on street corners announcing that he has hidden five golden tickets in his candy bars, tickets which will admit five lucky children into his factory. After five of the five golden tickets have been found, Charlie gives up hope. Charlie and his family are soon swept up in the excitement. Who will find a ticket? Who will get a tour of the mysterious chocolate factory?

The new version of the film is darker, wilder, and closer to the book than was the original. We learn far more about Willlie himself in this version. actually in this film, and finally we learn a lot of Willy Wonka’s childhood. A recent viewing of the original reminded me how slow moving and lackluster that version is in contrast to the colorful, imaginative Tim Burton vision. The new Oompa Loompas (all played by Deep Roy), are much more entertaining and their musical numbers are terrific (The soundtrack is a must-buy!).

I like the look of the factory in this version too – much more interesting and exciting. Johnny Depp’s performance is outstanding as he creates a character of great complexity and humor. Director Tim Burton has dished out many wacky and odd films, some of which (”Edward Scissorhands,” “Nightmare Before Christmas”) cult classics. “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is a lot of fun for the family, louder, sweeter, faster paced than the original…a future classic for Mr. Burton, I think. For an even more exhilarating experience, catch the IMAX version.

Rated PG for quirky situations, action and mild language. Running time 115 minutes.