Gene Wilder. Pure Imagination (Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory)-IN MEMORIAM

[Ken Burch]

Last edited Tue Aug 30, 2016, 11:26 PM - Edit history (2)

Gene Wilder 1933-2016

This gets a bit personal for me.

When the movie came out, I was eleven. I was a short, fat kid with glasses who couldn't run and bounce a ball at the same time. There was something in this song(I didn't even consciously think this at the time, but it was there)that said "Don't give up. You have worth, you have value, there is something within you that matters and that can save you".

In a tough time, this song kept me going. I think it had that affect for a lot of other kids my age, and perhaps still does. Perhaps it did that for some of you, wherever you are and whatever you were going through at some rough patch in your life.

I always hoped I'd have the chance to thank Gene Wilder for that little moment of saving transcendence. This is the only way I can now. Thank you Gene. Be happy. Be free. Say hi to Gilda for us all.

[dixiegrrrrl]

1. Heavy heavy sigh.

I feel so bummed out with the news of his passing.
Tis a lovely thought that he and Gilda are together again, tho.

[No Vested Interest]

2. Special memories for me. - Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-

I read the book by Raoul Dahl to my brood, a chapter or so at a time.
The characters were so vivid, we still refer to some of them in conversation.

We went on to read other Dahl books - James and the Giant Peach- on car trips,, a sure way to get the brood to settle down when they started to get restless in the back seats.

Very, very special.
RIP Gene Wilder.

[GreatGazoo]

3. A surprisingly powerful song that Gene imprinted on our young hearts

It is about being our own muse perhaps, or simply the value of inspiration. It is akin to Gandhi's quote "Be the change you wish to see in the world."

The song was recently used to great effect in Chipotle's viral ad campaign from 2013:

RIP Gene Wilder, you touched our hearts while making us laugh hysterically. Thanks for the great films!

[nuxvomica]

4. Where I work, the walls are decaled with images of cultural icons

Just as you exit the breakroom, you're greeted by a 7-foot image of Willie Wonka's smiling face. I always stop to look at it. It makes me happy. Today, a few people had posted notes next to his left cheek, yet people are normally careful about even touching those expensive vinyl decals. Management did not disapprove. Everybody, in his heart, is the child with the golden ticket, because of Gene.

[CTyankee]

5. Ken, you really moved me. I know what it is like to be in a tough time and going thru a rough patch.

I'm so glad this voice was there for you. Take care.

[Ken Burch]

6. Time can heal. So can hope.

Be well.