In the upcoming Entertainment Weekly cover story about Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (which hits newsstands on Friday), senior writer Chris Nashawaty notes that Tim Burton’s new film, to be released July 15, is already dividing Wonka fans into two camps. ”A lot of people are huge fans of the [1971] movie and hold it in awe. I wasn’t one of them,” says Burton, who insists his film will be more faithful to the 1964 Roald Dahl novel than the first movie was, even though Dahl himself wrote the screenplay.
The antagonism is mutual; original Wonka Gene Wilder recently said in an interview that Burton’s version ”is all about money. It’s just some people sitting around thinking ‘How can wemake some more money?’ Why else would you remake Willy Wonka?”
Johnny Depp (Willy Wonka v2.0) says he finds Wilder’s remarks ”disappointing.” He tells EW, ”I can understand where he’s coming from, I guess.” Except, that is, for Wilder’s complaint that the new movie is only about money. ”Well, hey, man, where have you been?” Depp says. ”When didn’t they ever doanything for money? Nobody’s ever made a film in the history of cinema wherethey weren’t expecting some return on their dough.” We’ll post more of the article later in the week at EW.com.
Gone unmentioned by both Depp and Wilder is the fact that the original movie was also all about money. As noted in the DVD extras and in director Mel Stuart’s 2002 book Pure Imagination, the 1971 Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory was bankrolled entirely by Quaker Oats as a promotional tie-in to the company’s new line of Wonka-branded candy bars. Though they ended up with a satirical and oddly dark musical that seems more for adults than children, rather than the 100-minute candy infomercial that Quaker probably wanted, the original filmmakers were hardly free from crassly commercial motives.
It’s unfair, of course, to compare the two Wonka actors when we haven’t seen Depp’s performance yet, though you can get a sample of it in the new trailer. Wilder’s performance mixed mirth with mischief and misanthropy, while Depp seems to be channeling offbeat character actor Sam Rockwell while disguised as Vogue editor Anna Wintour.
Who do you think will make the better Wonka? Do you side with one set of filmmakers against the other in this chocolate war, or do you think they should (Hershey’s) Kiss and make up?
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I loved the original film, and Gene Wilder was perfect in it. I have been looking forward to the new film because I am a Tim Burton fan. However, judging only from the trailers, Johnny Depp’s rendition of Wonka is kind of creeping me out. I’m getting Michael Jackson vibes, and that is not a good thing.
I loved the original and don’t think I am even going to see this new version. I usually do not enjoy Tim Burton’s work and all the trailers that I have seen (both on tv and at the cinema) haven’t done much to change my mind. Especially the “oompah-loompahs”. None of the kids seem even the least bit likeable. Johnny Depp’s makeup and all doesn’t do it for me. Plus Gene Wilder infused such a human side to the character that I just am not seeing any hint of.
This seems about as necessary as the remake of Psycho. I have loved Burton, but ever since Sleepy Hollow he’s completely lost me. His newer films seem like another filmmaker aping Burton, and that’s not a good thing. I’ll see it, of course, but there are several other wonderful stories by Dahl that haven’t seen screen time yet, (like the Twits, for one) that would be far more deserving than just re-treading a classic film.
Stop being such shallow-minded drones and accept this version as a modern adaptation of one of the classic films of the 70’s. Go enjoy it and stop crying you pansy asses.
I love Gene Wilder and Johnny Depp but the original movie is only good if you eat mushrooms. Same will porbably be true for Burtons version
Another unnecessary remake. Ho hum…
I only wish – by the looks of Johnny Depp – that they had cast Michael Jackson. Now THAT would be worth the price of admission.
I won’t be seeing it.
Is there a more over rated director than Tim Burton in the history of film making? Everything he does is laughably bad and redundant.
I don’t understand why people like the Gene Wilder movie. Maybe it’s interesting in it’s own right, it has little to do with what’s in the book. That’s why I hated it. I don’t expect a movie to be exactly the same as the book but it should at least reflect the spirit of the book. I didn’t recognize any of the characters’s personalities while watching this movie. I guess Willy Wonka never struck me as being really dark and creepy.
Plus, it’s a musical and a bad one at that. Hopefully this new one will do a better job of catching the spirit of the book.
My Johnny Depp worshipping bias aside, I am excited for the new Wonka flick. I look at the Burton creation as a new interpretation of a classic book, not a remake of a classic film. I absolutely adore Wilder as Wonka and it remains one of my favorite movies of all time, but the Burton/Depp collaborations have all been as equally enchanting (Edward Scissorhands, anyone?) that I am excited to see how they interpret the beloved story. As for the ‘creepy’ appearance of Depp’s Wonka, I seem to remember an outrageous looking pirate a few years ago that stole the hearts of millions. I hope the movie does well, but I understand why many people are shying away.
I’m in the camp of people who loved the original movie (still love it, to be honest), and can’t wait for the new one. The first movie had a lot of charm, and some real heart to it, but it did deviate pretty far from the book (also a favorite). The new one looks like it’s going to be much truer to the source material (squirrels!) and, heck, I’ll see anything with Depp in it.
Anyone notice a striking resemblance between Depp’s Wonka and Barry Humphries’ “Burt Schnick” cheesy game show host character in the Rocky Horror sequel Shock Treatment? Not much originality here….check it out!
What about the children?
No one here has even meantioned the children!!!
I think Johnny Depp looks like Michael Jackson on this film a lot, and I don’t know why there are so many narrowminded there that thinks it’s bad, first of all children who see Michael Jackson don’t think he’s weird, because they don’t judge, they are openminded and imaginatives, most of them don´t care about the news, and Michael jackson is highly magical for those with a clean mind like little children, I don’t know if Johnny Depp base his character on Michael Jackson, but if this is it ,I think it makes even more interesting, and I loved Johnny on Edward Scissorhands, by the way Michael Jackson could also be Edward in many, many ways, first everybody loves Edward, they get hair cuts and everything, then a situation it’s interpreted in the wrong way and they turn against him like he was the devil, just like with Michael Jackson and his love for children, and I truly think is really sad, he was found not guilty and still he is condemn. Finally I really hope that people would be less restrained in there thoughts and can see the art in this movie. I love Tim Burton and Michael Jackson, they are great artists on what they do.
Gene Wilder has his right to express himself, but he and nobody should prejudge a film that has NOT BEEN SEEN, I think that talent should be respected, no matter if you like it or you don’t, and I feel for what I see that this one could more well elaborated, and there are lots of people who loves Tim Burton’s work. People should not be afraid of art in no way. Prejudgement is bad and takes you nowhere. Let art be free.
Everybody forgets that not too long ago Gene Wilder said that if they were going to remake Willie Wonka, Depp would be his choice to do it. I thought it was very unprofessional of him to make the comment he did, and I’m a big fan of his! People who love the first movie should remember it was made as a candy commercial and then they should go read the book, or reread it, to see why it should be remade. As much as I loved Wilder’s performance in it, the movie was not true to the spirit of the book at all. WILLIE WONKA IS SUPPOSED TO BE CREEPY! Non-fans of Burton should definitely stay away, though, as this looks to be as Burtonesque as you can get.
And I trust Depp to do an outstanding job as always.
Book shmook.
Kelsey Grammer, Colin Mocharie or Ryan Stiles would have been good choices for the new Wonka.
Wonka is supposed to be a madman living inside his own, drug-induced head, not a groovy 60s mod Austin Powers fashion plate.
The original I loved. However, I can understand those who aren’t so keen on it. The only reason I loved the original however, was Wilder as Willy Wonka. That just made it.
Despite the differences with the book, for better or worse, I’m of the opinion that Wilder created Willy Wonka. If Dahl (and I have great respect for this man) portrayed his Wonka in a different way to how Wilder performed it seven years later, then I’m afraid Dahl’s one just had to be inferior in my book.
Wilder created something unique there, even by today’s standards. I saw the new film today, and whilst being more impressed than I’d originally expected, there was nothing magical about the Wonka portrayed there. Wacky, yes. Unusual, yes. Accurate to the book, perhaps (defintely moreso than the original). Unique? Indeed, better? Sorry, but no. I think any drama school would agree with that point.
first of all, lots of movies get rmade and updated, and I don’t hear this many people b******g and moaning about those. ex. How many versions of Dracula have been made? How about Frankenstein?
Secondly, how can you miss with Johnny Depp and Tim Burton. They have been a brilliant team in the past.
Thirdly, I don’t get what you people are seeing when you say Johnny looks like Michael Jackson, not even close. I have seen the movie however and did get the distinct impression that johhny may have used some Paully Shore characters to inspire his performance.
Gene Wilder get it make for The Factory. Johnny Depp suprise at him. because it good the time machine for 1971 in Willy wonka and the chocolate Factory. Gene wish it meet at Johnny Depp. He Said ” I can’t waiting for Johnny depp.” Johnny depp said ” Wow! I true that for history for you……I-I love it good hero for Gene.” Gene smile at Johnny Depp. Gene love it movie. He wish it good Charlie and The Chocolate Factory. Johnny Depp from Pirtes and the cabbibean. He can it hand honor at Johnny depp. Johnny care for him. Jay leno said “Hey??? Why are not come is Gene Wilder.” Gene said ” I m sorry….going it my family.” Jay *sign* said “I wish it meet at gene wilder for Show talk me.” Johnny Depp Said ” He’s Busy much it be keep.” Jay said “Ohh…. Darn it…” Gene is Leguard.
The End………………….:)
While Tim Burton has had his successes (Beetle Juice, Batman, Edward Scissorhands, Sleepy Hallow, etc) he has always been somewhat of “love him or hate him” personality. After “Batman Forever” (producer, not director) I thought he might have a little trouble – but not so. Anyway, until I see this rendition of Wonka, I’m going to reserve judgement. However, it’s definitely a movie I can wait to see until it’s on DVD. I will say that Wilder’s performance will be tough to top. His mixture of craziness and compassion is a very hard thing to do and I’m not sure whether or not Depp (even though he’s a fine actor) will be able to replicate.
I personlly think the new version of willy wonka is more true to the book, i did enjoy the old version but ever since i’ve heard of gene wilder’s un proffesional comments i sort of forgot how great he was, Johnny depp does it for me in this version, he does’nt remind me of michael jackson in anyway and i think that all the makeup designers who done johnny depp up should be congratulated because i could hardly recognise johnny and i do believe that gene wilder done a great job of playing willy wonka but i think that johnny depp has done a greater version espacally because he made kids laugh and tim burton told more about willy wonkas childhood and i must admit this new version took my heart away and made me cry. so tim burton and johnny depp and probaly gene wilder and especally the kids (which some had never acted before on screen) should be congratulated because they are all talented and Gene wilder should stop moaning and look on the bright side because he was chosen for the first version.
I have seen both films, and think that there are both good, but i think the new one is just better, and has a spectacular feeling to it! I enjoyed it soo much, it made me laugh loads! I think Depp was the perfect person to have as Willy Wonka, – he expresses him brilliantly! I would recomened it to friend – that i have! And I enjoyed the new one soo much i’m seeing it again at the cinema with my mate! If the first one was at the cinema i certainly would not go and see it twice! I did’nt like it that much as, in the film; Willy Wonka shouts at charlie – this really does’nt make it appealing to children, Willy WOnka is meant to be… yea a bit wacky, but a kind guy! The first one was spoiled by this, but apart from that it was really good. I am
upset be Gene Wilders comments about the new film! He should not make such wild acusations before he’s actually seen the film!! Also by this behavour it has made me not enjoy the first film now! Gene Wilder should just at least give the new film a chance! He should be supportive of other actors! Give them a chance in the spot light
from me x
I prefered the first film as Johnny Depp is really Fitt!! and i have enjoyed all his work! He and Tim make a greast team!!!!!!!!!!
I love both of them. IMO they’re two different movies that happen to have similar story lines
I’ve seen the movie! (This is after it came out on July 15). It was SO much better than the original. Johnny Depp makes a magnificent Willy Wonka. It goes along way more with the book than the original. For example, it’s not a golden goose Veruca wants, but a squirrel. Duh! It’s just so much better. You have no idea. See it and you’ll know what I mean. And about Gene Wilder’s comment on them wanting to just make money, well of course they do, but that’s not the whole story. Tim Buton is doing something he loves, making movies. He wouldn’t do it if he didn’t love it! And Johnny Depp loves acting, etc. Johnny Depp is a WAY WAY WAY better Wonka
THERE’S NO MICHAEL JACKSON VIBES! Michael Jackson loves kids(well mostly little boys, but anyways) and Wonka totally is like “Ew” about the kids. He only does act kinda weird in the movie because.. well you have to see it to know because I dont’ wanna ruin it. You guys are dumb because the new one isway better
Well, I like Dahl, I like wilder, I like Burton and I like Depp. And I think they all acomplished what they set out to do. But it all comes down to personal choice and my personal choice is Wilder. See I have sentimental ties to the movie, I remember my mom going to see a play with my uncle and so my Gramps was watching me, my best friend was over and Gramps cooked us frenchtoast for dinner! That was kind of weird in itself but the movie that was on TV that night was Willy Wonka and Gramps let us eat in front of the TV, it was a mad night for craziness!!!
I’m guessing from the slang used in some of these posts that the posters are young and I can see why the new version would appeal more to the younger people. The effects and such, that and the fact they have no ties to the first version. Thats ok, they can have thier favorite but for me Willy Wonka will always be Gene Wilder!
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Johnny Depp / Burton are great in Edward Scissors hands, but their Willy Wonka was rubbish.
Where was the magic?
Where was the excitement and anticipaition and build up of the Ticket hunt? I mean, jesus, they nailed up a few posters on telegraph poles outside the factory and then almost skipped past the hunt with a few cut-off modern we-love-america-cheese news articles.
The original had such an air of excitement and build-up.
And what about that crappy Johnny Depp entrance at the factory gates. Gene Wilders insane limping rolly-polly was so much more magical.
I don’t care which was more true to the book. The book is great. But Gene Wilder’s Wonka is an absolute classic – Why else would so many of us be posting. Our generation loved it. I really havent seen any of the kids encaptured with the Depp one the way they were with the Wilder one. I doubt any kids will rave on about it in 10 years time. It was a generic sausage factory churn out, with none of the magic or fable-like longevity of films like the original Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory, or Edward Scissor Hands.
Gene Wilder’s Wonka was a beautifully twisted yet warm character, where-as Depp’s was a 2D cardboard piece of eye-Candy.
OK, Depp is a gerat actor, and Edward Scissor Hands was a classic film, but I think either…
(a) Depp just got it wrong on this one, or
(b) Burtons obsession with visual pleasantries totally compromised the acting, and story telling.
(c) Which ever sausage-factory-churning producers and execs were on it, really didnt give a sh*t about anything except formulaic revenue calculations.
(d) An obsession with staying true to the BOOK (which is NOT a screenplay – it’s a BOOK), just translated into a crappy film.
(e) There exists some other Depp + Burton “Charlie And The Chocolate Factory” which actually IS a good film, and the current one is just a horrible joke or spoof.
I suppose the only good thing is that they might make a Great Glass Elevator. But then, they’d probably just ruin it.
Where is fancy bred, In the heart or in the head?
I haven’t really seen the new film, except for the trailors, but I still think that Gene Wilder is a muuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuch better Willy Wonka. I mean, Johnny Depp just creep me out. Seriously, he scares me (at least in his role as Willy Wonka). Go Wilder! Gene Wilder rocks! And you people dare criticize him for his “unprofessional comments”! I vote Gene Wilder!