Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory
Add this to the list of movies I grew up on. I’ve seen it more times than I can count, and it’s easily one of my most watched movies ever. I can basically quote it from start to finish. The history behind the movie is actually interesting and kind of funny. It does a somewhat good job of sticking to the book, but it also goes off in a few ways that aren’t in the book at all. I’m a large fan of source material, so since this strays off in some interesting ways, I can’t give this a perfect 100%. That’s part of the history that I mentioned: Roald Dahl hated this movie because of how far away it went from the book in certain places. Anyways, I still really, really love it. Both the book and the movie. I mean, the story is so iconic, I don’t even have to talk about it. Everyone I’ve ever met knows about Willy Wonka. Sure, he might be a child serial killer, but what can you do? One of the best rabbit holes you can go down is Willy Wonka theories. All the stupid theories relating Willy Wonka to Kevin McAllister or John Kramer are hilarious. Speaking of Gene Wilder, how is it possible that he gave one of the greatest performances in cinematic history? He brings so much joy to the movie, even if he has some odd and questionable moments. I just can’t get over how perfect that casting was. Everyone else is good, but Gene just blows every performance in film history right out of the water. Him singing “Pure Imagination” is one of the most beautiful things ever. Good segue there, regarding that song. It’s the best song ever written for a movie, and there’s no debate. The whole soundtrack is insanely good, and one of my personal favorite soundtracks. I’m gonna wrap this up in just a second. Last thing I want to mention is the set design. Every single room and detail in the factory is so ridiculously creative and it really makes you hungry. I mean, the Chocolate Room alone is one of the most gorgeous places you’ve ever seen. I would be in heaven if I were in there. To summarize all of this, the movie is literally perfect in every way, except for a couple writing decisions, and I’m not a huge fan of the song that Charlie’s mom sings. I’d definitely recommend this to all musical/comedy fans. This film is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!