Rowan Atkinson & Olivia Colman Join Timothée Chalamet In ‘Wonka’

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. Up next for the character is an original musical film starring Dune‘s Timothée Chalamet. Now, as first reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Chalamet is getting some company in the form of silver-screen legends Rowan Atkinson and Olivia Colman.

Moreover, Sally Hawkins is joining the cast as well. Additionally, the cast will be rounded out by Tom Davis (Coneheads), Simon Farnaby (Ghosts), and Kobna Holdbrook-Smith (Mary Poppins Returns). Per the initial report, production on the feature begins today in London.

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.

Olivia Colman is one of the most revered actresses of her generation. She is the recipient of an Academy Award, three British Academy Television Awards, and three Golden Globe Awards. Up next, the British actress will appear alongside Samuel L. Jackson in Marvel’s Secret Invasion. Meanwhile, thanks to endearing performances in film franchises like Mr. Bean and Johnny English, Rowan Atkinson is one of the most recognizable names in Hollywood. Up next, the actor will star in Netflix’s upcoming series Man vs. Bee. 

What do you think? Are you excited about a Willy Wonka origin movie? Let us know in the comments below!

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