“Wonka” is a musical fantasy film based on the Roald Dahl book “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” which was previously adapted for the screen in 1971 and 2005. Serving as a prequel to the novel and previous adaptations; the film is an unapologetically whimsical origin story that respects the legacy of its source material while also putting a new spin on the tale for audiences and fans of all ages.
Featuring Timothee Chalamet (“Dune: Parts One and Two”) in the title role, his performance as Willy Wonka sees him go from globetrotting urchin to wizard chocolatier over the course of an easy-to-consume 115-minute runtime. Notably, Chalamet did not even have to audition for the part; being cast because of his school days in musical theater. His rendition of Wonka not only captures the boundless energy of the late, great Gene Wilder in the role; he makes the role his own in the grand tradition of musical actors such as Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly.
Director Paul King has assembled a crew that previously worked on films in the “Wizarding World” and “Paddington” series; giving them plenty of experience in reimagining beloved children’s stories on film. The candy creations and world that combines elements of multiple different time periods gives the movie a deliberately timeless look and feel.
The visuals pay homage to not just the previous films, also including many scenes and sets would not be out of place in the illustrations of Dahl’s books. Experienced costume designer Lindy Hemming gives the entire cast a unique wardrobe; with Wonka himself treading the line between adventurous waif and enigmatic candyman from top hat to mailman’s dungarees. The songs not only contain reworked versions of beloved classics such as “Pure Imagination,” but a slew of new compositions alongside an orchestral score by Neil Hannon and Joby Talbot.
Overall, “Wonka” is a “scrumdiddlyumptious” musical origin story that’s recommended as a deliciously sweet way to start off the holiday movie season.
By Steven Pryor
Directed by Paul King (Based on novels by Roald Dahl)
Starring Timothee Chalamet, Rowan Atkinson, and Keegan-Michael Key with Calah Lane and Hugh Grant
Rated PG
My Rating: ****1/2:5