Absolutely enchanting! Adapted from a novel by the writer of James Bond stories, Ian Fleming, this charming fantasy follows Caractacus Potts as he journeys with his two children, Truly Scrumptious and their extraordinary car, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, into the strange, child-free land of Vulgaria. I believe what truly allows this film to succeed is that it incorporates so many elements essential for a great family movie. There are memorable songs throughout, a vibrant fairytale kingdom, wonderfully odd inventions, and a touch of darkness exploring social divides. The story feels divided into two distinct sections; at its heart, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is about creating a complete family unit. We meet Caractacus (Dick Van Dyke), a single father striving to raise his children with strong values. It's the children’s affection for an old car that leads to Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’s creation, and after the arrival of the lovely Truly Scrumptious (Sally Ann Howes, looking beautiful), all four characters firmly grab the audience’s attention and set up a sense of family potential. The film then transports viewers into a fantastical setting for its second half. Vulgaria is governed by the peculiar, toy-collecting Baron Bomburst (Gert Fröbe, in a wonderfully quirky performance), who has outlawed children and naturally desires Chitty Chitty Bang Bang itself. Bomburst dispatches his child kidnapper to capture Caractacus’s children, intending to trade them for the unique vehicle. The child snatcher, portrayed by Robert Helpman, is as recognizable as he is frightening; with a crooked hat and pointed nose, he lures children in using promises of sweets and tarts, ensuring his place in many childhood nightmares. However, being a family film, it concludes with a cheerful ending full of color and delightful oddities—yes, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang remains enjoyable even after multiple viewings. 8/10

Source on TMDB