Roald Dahl’s classic tale of a brilliant (if slightly mad) chocolate maker has already been adapted twice for the big screen. However, another film about Willy Wonka’s adventures is on its way to theatres – but it’s not an adaptation of Dahl’s book or even a remake of the previous films. This time, the filmmakers have decided to make a prequel to the classic story.
Find out what Wonka is about, who stars in the film and what the first trailers for the movie look like.
When will Wonka release?
The new tale of Willy Wonka will open in cinemas just before Christmas. In the US and UK, the film is set to premiere on Friday, 15 December 2023.
Who’s in the cast of Wonka?
The role of the young chocolatier is played by none other than Timothée Chalamet. Starring alongside him are:
- Hugh Grant – the Oompa-Loompa
- Olivia Colman – Mrs. Scrubitt
- Rowan Atkinson – Father Julius
- Calah Lane – Noodle
- Natasha Rothwell – Piper Benz
- Rakhee Thakrar – Lottie Bell
- Jim Carter – Abacus Crunch
- Rich Fulcher – Larry Chucklesworth
- Keegan-Michael Key – The Chief of Police
- Paterson Joseph – Slugworth
- Matt Lucas – Prodnose
- Mathew Baynton – Fickelgruber
- Tom Davis – Bleacher
- Sally Hawkins – Willy Wonka’s mother
Wonka is directed by Paul King (Paddington), who co-wrote the script for the film with Simon Farnaby (Paddington 2).
Warner Bros.
What will Wonka be about?
So far, the filmmakers haven’t revealed much information about the plot. What is known for sure is that Wonka tells the story of Willy’s young years, when, gripped by a passion for making chocolate, he sets out to perfect his craft.
After returning home, Willy decides to open a chocolate factory, but the sinister Chocolate Cartel stands in his way. Fortunately, Willy can count on the help of his new friends, including, of course, the Oompa Loompa.
Wonka isn’t an adaptation of any of Roald Dahl’s books. However, it will likely draw on the novels Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator. The latest Willy Wonka’s adventures won’t connect to the 1971 film with Gene Wilder or the Tim Burton version with Johnny Depp from 2005.
As the filmmakers have confirmed, Wonka will be a musical. According to rumours, Timothée Chalamet, who plays the leading role, will perform as many as seven musical numbers.
Is there a trailer for Wonka?
Willy starts a chocolate business in the first trailer for the film:
With a second trailer you get a better glimpse of the Hugh Grant’s Oompa Loompa: