Director: Paul King
Writers: Simon Farnaby, Paul King
Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Calah Lane, Keegan-Michael Key, Paterson Joseph, Matt Lucas, Mathew Baynton, Sally Hawkins, Rowan Atkinson, Jim Carter, Tom Davis, Olivia Colman, Hugh Grant
Chocolate, songs, and fun, free-spirited Timothee Chalamet – An irresistible combination makes “Wonka” a perfect joy ride. Movie ticket could be the golden ticket that you always wanted. This original story talks about the early days of “Willy Wonka”, a whimsical chocolatier from Roald Dahl’s 1964 novel, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Timothee Chalamet as Willy Wonka was a breath of fresh air when compared to Johnny Depp’s and Gene Wilder’s performances of Willy Wonka before this movie. Timothee is charming, charismatic, adorable, and full of optimism. He sings, dances, and smiles. Engaging narrative, visually stunning aesthetics, and refreshing songs make it a must-watch for fans of the original story and newcomers alike.
Story Line
The movie begins with the arrival of young Wonka to a city with 12 silver sovereigns in hand to “open the greatest chocolate shop the world has ever seen”. In a few hours he is parted with his money and end up in meeting ominous duo of Bleacher (Tom Davis) and Mrs.Scrubbit (Olivia Colman). They run a launderette and trick unassuming people to work for them. Wanka becomes the latest victim of the duo and ends up working for Mrs. Scrubbit. He befriends Noodle (Calah Lane) and a few others who were also tricked by Mrs.Scrubbit to work for her. They work together as a team aspiring for a better future. The team had to fight against chocolate cartel- Fickelgruber (Mathew Baynton), Slugworth (Paterson Joseph), and Prodnose (Matt Lucas). Cartel conspires with the corrupt Chief of Police (Keegan-Michael Key) to put an end to Wonka’s career before it even begins. The movie is all about how Wonka and his team overcome every obstacle thrown at them. Hugh Grant as Oompa Loompa steals the show. His version of “Oompa Loompa song” is one of the highlights of the movie.
The songs are colorful and well-choreographed. “Pure Imagination” and “Oompa Loompa” make us travel back in time. Timothee can dance, and so does Hugh Grant.
Summing Up
To sum up, Wonka is entertaining and enjoyable. It is an ideal film for the whole family to watch over this festive season. The movie delivers the message “ Every good thing in this world, started with a dream. So you hold on to yours.” and leave us wanting for more.
