Opened: July 15, 2005

Directed by: Tim Burton

Starring: Johnny Depp, Freddie Highmore, David Kelly, Helena Bonham Carter, Noah Taylor, Missi Pyle, James Fox, Deep Roy, Adam Godley, Franziska Troegner, AnnaSophia Robb, Julia Winter, Jordan Fry, Philip Wiegratz, Blair Dunlop, Liz Smith, Eileen Essell, David Morris, Annette Badland & Christopher Lee

As a reimagining of the Roald Dahl classic, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is somehow darker in sets and costumes, but lighter in tone than the 1971 film.

For the first time in years, Willy Wonka (Johnny Depp) is opening the doors of his factory to five lucky children. Poor Charlie Bucket (Freddie Highmore) wins one of the coveted golden tickets. At the factory, the other winners run into issues along the tour.

Highmore is the picture of purity and plays Charlie with such sincerity that you’ll adore him from the start. Depp conversely is wonderfully wacky as Wonka. He doesn’t quite reach the insanity of Gene Wilder but brings his own depth to the character.

The set is beautiful with entrancing colors and incredible hair and makeup that will transport you into Dahl’s world with ease.

Final say: Golden. ★★★★★