When it comes to holiday movies at the cinema, we all crave
something festive. We flock to the theatres in droves for a feel-good, positive
and bright looking movie to bring joy to this special time of year. What better
film then, to end 2023 on none other than the tale of the original chocolate
maker himself, Willy Wonka?
Not based off a novel by author Roald Dahl, but more an
imagining of the characters origins, Wonka tells the story of how Willy became,
well… Wonka. Meeting him as a young man, sailing across the misty seas to a
city where he hopes to make his dreams come true, the film opens with a catchy
song to start proceedings, and really never lets up for it’s entire running
time.
In the capable hands of director Paul King, who have us the
brilliant “Paddington” and “Paddington 2” and starring the charismatic and
versatile Timothee Chalamet in the lead role, Wonka is aimed at families, and
viewers of all ages will find something to enjoy. The story is straight forward
enough, but doesn’t downplay things to appeal to the youngest viewers. Nor does
it forget the adults in the audience, i.e. Mum and Dad who have taken their
young ones to go see it. As a parent myself, I was very entertained and laughed
several times, as did my eight year old daughter who thought it was “Great!”
With a great supporting cast including Oscar winner Olivia
Coleman, comedian’s Rowan Atkinson and Matt Lucas, and let’s not forget to
mention Hugh Grant as the sole Oompa Loompa who steals the show, every
character has their moment to shine, with a great comedic scene, or the chance
to sing, of which there are many, original songs to enjoy. Of course, the
classic Pure Imagination is not left off the list, and given a refreshed sound
and heartfelt performance by Chalamet himself, who continues to prove himself
to be more talented than a young actor like himself has the right to be. His
star is certainly on the up and up.
The other question on most people’s minds is, how does this
film compare to the original film? Gene Wilder’s performance as Willy Wonka in
the original “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” cannot be dethroned, as he
brought an equal balance of light and darkness to that role so perfectly. And
as for Johnny Depp’s Portrayal in 2005’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”,
well… that has its lovers and haters, and is just Depp all over. Timothee
Chalamet makes the role his own, bringing an optimistic naiveite to the
character who has stepped right off the skip with only his hat, purple jacket
and a few coins in his pocket. It was nice to see more of his backstory as a
boy, and where his love of chocolate came from, and the film has a sweet ending
that is sure to tug at your heartstrings.
Go in with an open mind, an open heart, and take a bite out
of this sweet tale of pure decadence and happiness; just like a piece of
chocolate.
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