Wonka

Story: The film explores the early years of chocolatier, magician Willy Wonka (Timothee Chalamet), who wishes to open his shop in a city known for its chocolate. However, to fulfil his dream, he must brave the chococalypse and battle the chocolate cartel trio, who are hellbent on stalling his flourishing business. They see the chatty young candyman as a potential future competition.


Review: Timothee Chalamet channels his Lil Timmy Tim energy to create a lovable Wonka with twinkle in his eye and hope in the heart. While there was a lot of talk around his casting since his Wonka isn’t mysterious, dark or eccentric, he retains the quirks wonderfully.
Wonka feels like a delectable cup of hot chocolate on a cold winter morning or a warm hug on a gloomy day. It is as relaxing as the crackling sound of a fireplace. The classic holiday feel-good drama on love, passion, friendship, building and rebuilding life by having faith in your dreams, leaves you with a gleeful smile and teary eyes. The spiritual prequel or origin story of Roald Dahl's famous chocolate factory owner immerses you in its world of adventure, compassion, and persistence. Can the greedy beat the needy as is the way of the world? Not on Wonka’s watch.

Paul King’s musical is formulaic and predictable but that doesn’t distract it from doing its job. It’s calming and heart-melting cute, transporting you to a world of wonder and joy.

Chalamet is supported by a stellar cast, who are outstanding in their respective roles. The chocolate cartel comprising Paterson Joseph as Slugworth, Matt Lucas as Prodnose and Mathew Baynton as the poor hating Fickelgruber are likeable villains. Keegan-Michael Key as the chocolate obsessed Chief of Police is hilarious and Rowan Atkinson shines in a special role.

Wonka’s friends, a bunch of kind misfits show you why ‘it’s not about the chocolate but who you share it with’. Calah Lane as a wise young girl Noodle, Jim Carter as an accountant, Natasha Rothwell as a plumber, Rakhee Thakrar as a telephone operator and Rich Fulcher as a standup comic are excellent. However, if anyone grabs your attention as much as Chalamet, it’s Olivia Colman as the nasty Mrs Scrubbit, Sally Hawkins as Wonka’s mother and Hugh Grant as the grumpy Oompa-Loompa. The songs take the narrative forward instead of slowing the pace or story.

Wonka is a heartwarming family entertainer that can heal your fairly cynical outlook towards life.