Except for the Chocolate factory and Willie Wonka, this is an excellent film. Unfortunately, those two comprise half the film.

That said, there are a few enjoyable factory scenes deserving praise. The squirrel/nut-sorting scene is absolutely adorable. And the TV transport scene has its highlights. Aside from that, the factory tour is rather tedious. Depp is not Wonka, he's Depp trying to be quirky, creepy, and charming all at once. And Oompas are fun at first, but very quickly bore. As long as they're going to use only one actor (then computer multiply him), why not get someone who can really dance? Break dance, hip-hop, something! The musical sequences are drab, sporting uninspiring songs and direction.

But the film chose the right character after which to name itself. Freddie Highmore as Charlie is absolutely solid. In fact, don't rent this, instead, rent Two Brothers where Freddie shares the screen with two tigers.

Further, the art direction and set design is inconsistent. The glass elevator almost works, but can't quite break from CGI to reality. That's too bad, this is the showstopper -- it ought be seamless. Other effects are also below expectations for this director. Still, others work fine or great. Again, kudos on the concept and execution of the squirrel scene -- it's lovely.

I also loved the design and blocking of Charlie's family home. Bent, slanting, pocked with holes out to the snow above, but warm nonetheless. The seating of both sets of grandparents in one bed is absolutely genius.

The wholesome fuzzy ending almost brings the film up to a B+ (I was admittedly choked up, tight in the throat to the point of soreness -- appropriately, very sweet).

One last word, while the film is mostly good clean family fun, it does have it's creepy moments.

This film screened at a Laemmle Theatre.