I saw the movie CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY this afternoon with 11 of my co-workers and a hoard of yapping, giggling, whispering kids. The kids weren't ours. That'll teach us to go to an early afternoon matinee on the opening day of a movie like that. :) I've read the book the movie is based on. (I was young and I don't remember much, but I did read the book.) I've seen WILLIE WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY hundreds of times and never get tired of it. I was eagerly anticipating the re-make just because I've heard so many good things about originality, creativity and Johnny Depp's performance. That said, I was a little disappointed in the movie. Johnny Depp was excellent. It was a treat to see him doing that kind of role... and he had some great lines. "Everything here is eatable. I'm eatable. But, that, my dear children, is called cannibalism and frowned upon in most societies" really cracked me up. :) I can't quite say what it is that left me wanting. Maybe it was just that I really expected some of the things from the "other" movie to show up. SORT OF SPOILER..... We find out that Willie is "different" because his father wouldn't let him eat chocolate as a child and Willie grew up thinking that his father was disappointed in him. The audience is treated to several flashbacks to Willie's childhood. SPOILER END...... Anyhoo--- it made me laugh. It did not make me cry. It was worth the matinee price I paid for it, but I think I'm going to stick to the Gene Wilder version for my entertainment value. :) If any of you go to see it, you'll have to let me know what you thought of it. On an unrelated note, I bought my airline e-tickets today for my vacation to Virginia Beach in September. I also confirmed my beachfront, oceanview hotel room. I know it's almost 2 months away, but I can't wait to leave town and head to the beach for some sun, sand, saltwater, and stress-free splendor. :)