CATCF Discussion Question #7, A sweet ending

Originally Posted by Karen
on 7/31/05 at 07:09 AM

Because of the backstory additions the ending had to change. As we wind up this discussion, how do you think the movie ending works compared to the ending in the book?
Does it leave you wanting more?
Do you want to see the book's sequel, Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator, made into a movie too??

MerryK

I didnt read the book till after I saw the movie.. but I definitely like the movie ending better. When reading the book I was thinking.. just how big is this glass elevator that they were pushing the bed into.
I am intrigued by the other book. I wish I had known about these when my kids were younger.. I think they would have made great reading for them.. still could.

MadScntst

I think the book ending was fine for the book, because in that case, there was no backstory and no reason for Willy to refuse to let Charlie bring along his family. (I forgot about them pushing the bed into the elevator, lol, thanks for reminding me of that, Mary Kay!) It was a sweet ending for a kid's story. But I have been sold on Tim's idea that for the movie, if you're going to visually watch a story unfold, and you have no inkling about why this character is so kooky, it's more satisfying to have an explanation for it. And once it's revealed that Willy had problems with his father, then it follows that the idea of Charlie bringing his family along would be something that wasn't part of Willy's vision, or even something that had occurred to him. Willy had fooled himself that he had done just great without a family. And he saw that most of the families he invited for the tour were dysfunctional in one way or another. And when Charlie says, "I'd never get to see my family again?" Willy says, "Consider that a bonus!" Twisted, but right in character! He doesn't understand, but thanks to Charlie, he learns a lesson about that.
If I would change one thing, it would be to try to wrap up this part a little quicker. But I don't know how I would be able to change it, because I love the analyst's chair, the shoe-shining scene, and Willy's dentist visit! So maybe it didn't really need to be shortened after all- maybe just to try to quicken the pace of these scenes a little.
Oh, and the other thing I would have liked to have seen would be that Christopher Lee joined them for dinner. The Wonka's have made peace, but you don't know if they will now stay reunited- the emphasis is on Willy finding a family... that is the Bucket family. But maybe it's a work night, and dad had some late appointments! I hope he can come for a visit soon!
As for the Great Glass Elevator, I haven't read it, so I couldn't say whether it should be made into a movie. I am pretty sure that Johnny has said in recent interviews that it should be made. But yet I also believe that Tim has roundly denied having any interest in being part of such a project. Darn! Well, we will see!

Karen

Great thoughts Cathy. And I am on record for wondering why Dr. Wonka wasn't at the Bucket's dinner table. Oh well, maybe more in good time? LOL
I see an increase in book sales coming up....on my way to the book store in search of CHARLIE AND THE GREAT GLASS ELEVATOR........

captainjacksparrow

I liked the ending in the movie better than the book. But, it is not because the book had a bad ending. It had a great ending for the book that then set up the great glass elevator (which is another good book). Having said that, the ending to the movie really wrapped all things up neat and tidy. Except for Wilbur Wonka and yes he should have been at the table. I don't think that it needs a sequel to tell the rest of the story (even though it is a tale to tell). I would like to see another Willy movie with Tim and Johnny .....they are an amazing pair.

MerryK

Cathy.. did you peek into my head.. you said what I was thinking so well.. but then that doesnt surprise me..

deppraved

For me, the movie ending worked much better than either the book or the original movie version with Wilder. As the camera panned back and you saw that their little shack was inside the factory, with powdered sugar sprinking over it to simulate snow, it was a little sweet surprise and it was such a satisfying ending that it made me leave the theater with a big smile.

No, but if there is more to come, I'll take it!

I've not read the book sequel, but if they build it, I will come, and I'll read the book too. Why not?

thanks for the lovely discussion, Karen, and the opportunity to participate.