One of the most iconic and recognizable characters in the American movie canon is Willy Wonka. Thanks to an electric performance from the iconic Gene Wilder in 1971’s Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Wonka has become a pop culture icon. A few years ago, Warner Bros. revealed plans for an origin film about the character. The feature will reportedly depict his time before running the famous chocolate factory. Now, as first reported by Deadline, Timothée Chalamet will lead the cast for the origin story.
The multitalented Chalamet joins the aforementioned Widler and Johnny Depp in portraying the eccentric owner of the Wonka Chocolate Factory. Depp portrayed the character in 2005’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which also explored Wonka’s younger days. Additionally, previous rumors had Warner Bros. eyeing Tom Holland, Ryan Gosling, Donald Glover, and Ezra Miller for the role but the focus has apparently shifted to either Holland or Chalamet.
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Paul King (Paddington) is on board to direct the film, titled Wonka. Moreover, King co-wrote the script with Simon Rich (An American Pickle) based on Roald Dahl’s classic children’s novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. David Heyman (Harry Potter) will serve as the film’s executive producer alongside Luke Kelly and Michael Siegel. Additionally, the prequel is set to feature several musical numbers.
Chalamet has also become one of Hollywood’s hottest commodities following his head-turning performances in films like Little Women, Call Me By Your Name, and The King. Up next, the actor will star in Denis Villeneuve’s upcoming film Dune. The actor will also star in James Mangold’s Bob Dylan biopic Going Electric.
What do you think? Are you excited about a Willy Wonka origin movie? Let us know in the comments below!
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