Dark, disturbing, and creepy, Johnny Depp not only proves his mettle as a great actor, he channels the spirit of Michael Jackson in a way that makes me laugh instead of triple-checking my zipper.

I liked this movie, but a review in a conventional context is impossible. When in doubt reach for a list.

What works about Willy Wonka:

1) Use of subtext – as in the original, plenty of plays on words, and innuendos. I leave those to interpreation.

2) Characters – good caricatures with strong ties to the book.

3) Story – clean, mean and lean. Wonka’s motivations and background are much clearer this time around. That balances out his father issues and predilection for children.

4) Johnny Depp – the man!

5) Effects – top notch!

Verdict: Movie theater, matinee. Since the film is almost a “family� piece, expect children and teenagers who think they are in their living room.

Caveats: Please don’t let your children hang out with Willy Wonka, or the other guy.