"Wonka" is Colorful, but Lacks the Verve of the Original


"Wonka" is a 2023 prequel to the 1971 film adaptation 'Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,' which, in turn, is based on the 1964 novel 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' by Roald Dahl. The original film features the incomparable Gene Wilder, with Peter Ostrum as Charlie Bucket and Jack Albertson as Grandpa Joe.



This prequel/reimagining aims to continue the legacy of Dahl's iconic character and Wilder's performance (ironically, Dahl wasn't a fan of the 1971 musical).

The 2023 film stars Timothée Chalamet as a young Willy Wonka, aspiring to become a chocolatier. Chalamet is accompanied by newcomer Calah Lane and seasoned actors Hugh Grant, Olivia Colman, Paterson Joseph, Keegan-Michael Key, and Jim Carter. The narrative revolves around Wonka competing with three other chocolatiers. While the story is engaging, it has some notable flaws.



Firstly, the use of CGI falls short of the practical effects and magic of the original, relying too heavily on the original songs—only "The Oompa Loompa Song" and "Pure Imagination" stand out. There's no equivalent to the catchiness of "Golden Ticket," "The Candyman," or "Cheer Up, Charlie." The original's charm and the construction of the Chocolate factory made the candy irresistible.





Furthermore, Timothée Chalamet doesn't quite capture Wonka's essence. There's a lack of insight into what makes Wonka eccentric and magical, with little explanation. Unfortunately, Chalamet is overshadowed, particularly by Hugh Grant, Olivia Colman, Paterson Joseph, and Jim Carter. Gene Wilder never faced such overshadowing in the original.



The film's major drawback is the uncertainty it introduces to the Wonka lore in the Warner Bros. film universe. Despite appreciating the inclusion of the three major villains, it alters significant aspects for other films.

Final Thoughts:

"Wonka" is an enjoyable film, but overthinking the film lore or story is discouraged. Pretending that the other two movies don't exist is advisable, lest you spend the entire time questioning the narrative progression.



Shaquanna Stevens is a public school educator, film critic, and mother of three. When she's not in the classroom, she’s diving into the world of cinema, offering insightful reviews with a personal touch.

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