Sep
6
2005
Japan Today – By Chris Betros – TOKYO – Johnny Depp has often been referred to as one of Hollywood’s chameleons, for his ability to play so many offbeat characters.
His latest effort, as eccentric chocolate tycoon Willy Wonka, in Tim Burton’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” is no exception. With his clip-on teeth and garish make-up, Wonka is another in the 42-year-old Depp’s long line of unique characters, among them Edward Scissorhands, Ed Wood, Ichabod Crane, James Barrie and pirate Capt Jack Sparrow.
“Ever since I met Johnny for ‘Scissorhands,’ each time he has been more amazing,” said Burton, 47, during a visit to Japan this week with Depp. “He likes to act strangely and wear funny costumes. That’s the sort of person I like to work with.” For his part, Depp described Burton as someone he can have complete trust in.
Depp, who was last here in 1995 to promote “Dead Man,” received a rousing reception at Narita airport when he flew in by private jet. Nearly 2,000 fans were on hand to greet him, and at his news conference, a couple of hundred waited in vain outside the room. Depp seemed touched by the reception, although he doesn’t give much away.
He speaks slowly and softly, sometimes not sure what he is supposed to say. Dressed in jeans, brown jacket and with a flannel shirt tied around his waist, he looked quite cool with his grungy,
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