TOKYO — Johnny Depp has often been referred to as one of Hollywood’s chameleons, for his ability to play so many offbeat characters. –
By Chris Betros.
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.
Japan Today is published by Crisscross KK
Copyright
