This weekend, my kids borrowed Willy Wonka from the local library. This classic musical, based on the Roald Dahl book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, follows young Charlie Bucket and four other kids as they receive the chance of a lifetime: a tour of Willy Wonka's amazing factory. But all is not as it seems, and more than one surprise is in store. In the end, they'll all learn a thing or two about things that matter far more than candy.
Most films, for me, don't age well, but this 1971 flick was better than I remembered. The humor was great (and darker in spots than I recall); I loved Gene Wilder's performance as Wonka. But more importantly, the messages were excellent, teaching children (and adults) about the dangers of greed, selfishness, and improper conduct. It's a bit over-the-top in places, but still worth your while. The 'recent' Tim Burton remake (starring Johnny Depp) doesn't measure up to the original.
Rating: A-
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