Willy Wonka & Chocolate Factory [DVD] [1971] [Region 1] [US Import] [NTSC]

Very entertaining and a great story

As a European born and bred person this is one of my two favourite childhood fantasy movies alongside the classic 1939 'The Wizard Of Oz'. The setting of this classic 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' is a fantasy film intermixed with modern and Victorian elements. The film uses elements of cinematography carefully reserved for key moments to make us remember key moments within the plot. The film expresses childhood innocence, passion and make belief fantasies in desires and wishes for sweets and chocolates. These are expressed through bright hues of every colour within the Medieval and modern elements of architecture and Victorian costumes. However the overall message lies in the protagonists innocence, virtue, trust and wisdom. The contrasting light interchanges from natural daylight that expresses energy and happiness to a dull tone reflecting darker elements in the protagonists journey which take him high and low. His a goal to provide the needs of his mother and grandparents but his needs are a love for chocolate that keep him happy and cheerful. Wide shots capture intriguing costumes and architectural features of an everyday Medieval European town and the chocolate factory. The intrigue is enhanced by unusual shapes and colours without blurring (deep focus). Scenes interchange between the protagonist as a single person on screen to two and three people shots that expand into wide shots that pan right and left instead of tilting upwards or downwards except for key moments when the antagonist meets the protagonist or the protagonist breaks the rules along with his sidekick grandfather in the bubble room. The camera sits balanced on a camera trolley which moves right and left (dolly) throughout most of the film. This contrasts with sudden close ups and slightly unbalanced camera angles (Dutch angle) and squashed lenses that tighten the image from the edges of the screen and make it appear slightly rounded in the centre (fisheye) when the antagonists makes his brief appearances. This again is a technique used at key moments for us to help remember significant characters and moments throughout the plot.

Loved this film as a child and was craving some nostalgia so had to buy it. Don't know why but it always gives me that Christmassy feeling. A great movie

Excellent movie for all the family.We loved it, so highly recommend.

The film is without a doubt, a 5* worthy film!Sadly, the digital version on prime, has loading/skip issues half way through the film, which was quite annoying as it would not let us watch the rest of the film.

Will always be a classic and has definitely been passed down to the kids, it is a film that everybody should watch atleast once in your life.

Starring Gene Wilder, this is a timeless classic that brings Roald Dahl's beloved story to life with whimsy and wonder. Wilder's eccentric and enigmatic portrayal of Willy Wonka captivates audiences, blending charm and a touch of darkness. The film's imaginative set designs, memorable musical numbers, and endearing characters create a fantastical world that delights both children and adults. While its darker undertones may surprise some viewers, the movie remains a magical and enduring tale of curiosity, morality, and the boundless power of imagination.A childhood favourite of mine, and still holds up. 5 stars.

Love the movie