missy-91

Saw this on HBO back when the channel didn't air 24 hrs - how old is that?! I totally fell in love with Frank Langella and started watching all his movies, starting with Zorro, then Dracula, etc. I even went to see Masters of the Universe - how's that for dedication! Absolutely wonderful actor with a great range. I saw him live as Henry Higgins in My Fair Lady over a decade ago. You can tell he was born for the stage - that's where his heart is, and his stage performances really capture his essence and power, but this show (Sherlock Holmes) remains my absolute favorite. I've never seen Holmes portrayed with such real flaws, problems, or emotions! Found it on ebay a year ago, and I still get chills when watching it! I had no clue the kid was Christian Slater - how funny!

I've seen this movie hundreds of times at various ages (ah, the magic of cable), but I never really cared for it. It was well cast, and the kids performed well. But Gene Wilder seemed bored and detached - his brilliance is really only showcased by Mel Brooks. Why were the Oompa Loompas orange? I always hated the musical interludes - they dragged on forever and felt more like filler than story information. The boat ride was just weird, and sent my five year old shaking out of the room. Too many segments didn't follow the book well enough for me.

By contrast, I enjoyed Johnny Depp's version, even with the really painfully stereotypical obnoxious children and added back story on Wonka.