Wonka
With just a few silver sovereigns in his pocket a young Willy Wonka (Timothee Chalamet) sets out to change the world with his chocolates. But, it’ll take more than luck and sweets to overcome a greedy candy cartel that’s out to stop him and do him in. Then again, with a little help from some new friends, a little Wonka magic, one very large giraffe, and one tiny oompa loompa (Hugh Grant), the world will get to see what Wonka has to offer.
Written by Simon Farnaby, Paul King, and Roald Dahl, and Directed by King, this prequel of magic and wonder has all the ingredients to start the holidays with whimsy and cheer walking carefully between lightness and dark. Set as a musical, the elements and backstory are very much present to illustrate where the legendary chocolatier comes from, told with enough panache, color, big dance numbers, and just the right dash of silliness to reach across age demographics and entertain for its one hour and fifty six minute runtime. And, while Chalamet may not have the most trained voice in Hollywood he can still dance up a storm, and, is surrounded by a cast dotted with familiar faces all skilled in dramatics and comedy (think Olivia Coleman, Keegan-Michael Key and Matt Lucas for starters) this fun romp into a land of make-believe has enough fizzy lifting strength to rise to the occasion. Featuring several easily recount-able songs, the recipe seems prime for family cheer. Wonka is rated PG.