Respect the Man in the Willy Wonka Van.
I am a true lover of classics like "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory." I mean, Gene Wilder is and always be the one, true Wonka...
And after reading what this guy has been through: four divorces, the death of Gilda Ratner, his third wife, an astranged adopted child, and cancer, the poor man deserves to keep his Wonka title.
I mean, I will probably LOVE the Tim Burton version because Tim Burton and Johnny Depp are my heroes, but I think Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka is my ultimate hero. I only say this because he fit the part so well. Even now children know that he is the real "candyman."
Gene Wilder had a kind appeal and a childlike appearance himself. I mean, when "Willy Wonka" was first made, circa 1971, that guy was at the top of his prime. He was well on the way to being the biggest star in Hollywood. And even though he coulda had it all, he decided his dignity and his character were worth more than fame and fortune, and he gave it all up for a calm life.
To me, Gene Wilder will always be my Willy Wonka hero.
You are an idol to be remembered, Gene, even after Tim tries to steal the limelight.
I would like to add that Johnny Depp has come forth, on the record, and stated that Gene Wilder's portrayal of Willy Wonka was indeed the best and that he had no idea how he could "fill his shoes" or top his performance. At least Johnny was nice enough to give in quietly and with dignity.
Keep the crown, Gene, you deserve it.
So, pre-Tim Burton Willy Wonka, and prolly after, it's Gene Wilder all the way for me. He is the one and only candyman. You go, Gene.
Love and Luck,
Kat
And after reading what this guy has been through: four divorces, the death of Gilda Ratner, his third wife, an astranged adopted child, and cancer, the poor man deserves to keep his Wonka title.
I mean, I will probably LOVE the Tim Burton version because Tim Burton and Johnny Depp are my heroes, but I think Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka is my ultimate hero. I only say this because he fit the part so well. Even now children know that he is the real "candyman."
Gene Wilder had a kind appeal and a childlike appearance himself. I mean, when "Willy Wonka" was first made, circa 1971, that guy was at the top of his prime. He was well on the way to being the biggest star in Hollywood. And even though he coulda had it all, he decided his dignity and his character were worth more than fame and fortune, and he gave it all up for a calm life.
To me, Gene Wilder will always be my Willy Wonka hero.
You are an idol to be remembered, Gene, even after Tim tries to steal the limelight.
I would like to add that Johnny Depp has come forth, on the record, and stated that Gene Wilder's portrayal of Willy Wonka was indeed the best and that he had no idea how he could "fill his shoes" or top his performance. At least Johnny was nice enough to give in quietly and with dignity.
Keep the crown, Gene, you deserve it.
So, pre-Tim Burton Willy Wonka, and prolly after, it's Gene Wilder all the way for me. He is the one and only candyman. You go, Gene.
Love and Luck,
Kat