‘Wonka’: Release Date, Cast & Everything We Know
It’s been fifty years since Roald Dahl’s legendary novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory first hit the shelves, and Warner Bros. is set to revive the beloved franchise with its highly anticipated prequel: Wonka.
Premise
Wonka will focus on a young Willy Wonka as he navigates his way through a world of eccentric characters. The story will be set before the events of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and will explore Wonka’s life in the chocolate factory and his curious background.
Release Date
Wonka is set to be released in theatres around the world on March 17, 2023.
Cast
The casting of Wonka has been highly anticipated, and Warner Bros. have finally announced who will play the titular character. The actor chosen to play the enigmatic Willy Wonka is none other than Golden Globe and Emmy Award nominee Donald Glover. Other cast members include Anya Taylor-Joy, who will play Mrs. Teevee, and Sing Street’s Lucy Boynton, who will play Violet Beauregarde.
Directed by Paul King
Wonka is directed and written by Paul King, who is best known for his work on Paddington and Paddington 2. King’s past work shows a unique aesthetic and artistry, and fans of Wonka are sure to be more than a little excited about what he might bring to the cinematic world of Wonka.
Other Behind-the-Scenes Talent
Wonka will also feature Danny Elfman as its composer, as well as Matthew Vaughn as its editor. Fans of Elfman, Vaughan and King are sure to be thrilled that the trio are joining forces.
Filming Locations
Filming locations will include both real-world locations, such as London, as well as sets at Warner Brothers Studios. The crew will travel to the Warner Brothers studios to shoot the musical numbers and special effects-heavy scenes.
Plot
The plot of Wonka follows a young Willy Wonka on his journey through the world of chocolate and eccentric characters. The audience will learn about Wonka’s mysterious past, his life before the factory, and the adventures that take him to the Chocolate Factory and Oompa-Loompas.
Themes
Wonka aims to bring the original source material back to the big screen, with a focus on the original themes of Dahl’s work: the beauty of nature, the importance of family, and the rewards of imagination and hard work.
Visual Elements
The visual elements of Wonka are sure to be stunning. Between the practical effects-heavy set design, Danny Elfman’s score, and Paul King’s unique take on the world of Wonka, the visuals of the film are sure to be breathtaking.
Music
Danny Elfman will handle the score for the film, and according to King, the songs will be original works composed especially for Wonka. Elfman’s music will be a mix of classic orchestration and modern production, sure to be a fitting accompaniment to the vibrant world of Wonka.
Wonka is sure to be a hit with fans of the original novel, as well as newcomers to the franchise. With its strong casting, talented behind-the-scenes team, and beautiful visuals, Wonka is poised to become a classic. Catch the world of Wonka when it hits theatres on March 17, 2023.