Wonka (2023) – 7.5/10 – Charming Adventure through a World of Pure Imagination
A prequel to the timeless musical ‘Willie Wonka & the Chocolate Factory’ released in the 1970s. This one covers the adventure of a young poor Willy Wonka and his rise from nothing. He begins with two things his mother had left for him. One was the idea that every good thing in life begins with a dream, and the other was the last bar of chocolate she had made for him to open when his dream was realized. It’s a beautiful, heartwarming film showing there is a child in everyone. Timothee Chalamet did a good job playing Willy Wonka, and I think he has a bright future ever since ‘Dune’ carried him to stardom. The supporting cast also was wonderful in bringing the story to life.
While not as good as the original, ‘Wonka’ recreates the aura that fans of the original movie are accustomed to. This film also paid homage to Billy Wilder’s and writer Roald Dahl’s magical world in the little details including a few quotes and usage of two of its most popular tunes, including my favorite ‘Pure Imagination’. While Gene Wilder’s Wonka was a cynic and a bit dark, Chalamet’s Wonka is captivating, innocent, perhaps a bit naive, and filled with joy. Both bring the underlying feel they want to leave the world a better and happier place.
Do I recommend it? Yes. It comes closer to the original in feel than Johnny Depp’s Willie Wonka remake, which I was not a fan of. This film is charming and takes you away in a world of pure imagination.
