As 2023 drew to a close, cinema-goers were treated to the musical extravaganza "Wonka," a film that resurrects the nostalgic vibes of classic musical cinema. It brings to life the tale of the candy maker "Willy Wonka," a character who has previously appeared twice on the big screen; first in 1971's "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," and again in 2005's "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," both adaptations of author Roald Dahl's novel.
Directed by Paul King, the new rendition of "Wonka" stars Timothy Chalamet, Olivia Colman, and Hugh Grant. While it is based on the beloved character, it is not a direct adaptation of Dahl's novel, but rather builds a background and history for the character that complements the literary work.
Wonka.. A Tale for Both Young and Old
The film "Wonka" begins with a song wherein the hero recounts where he has been before this moment and his seven-year journey across the seas leading to the city where he dreams of building his own candy empire.
Through words, melodies, and dance, the film establishes this cinematic universe, portraying the hero’s optimism and grand dreams against the cruelty and brutality of the city that robs him of all his savings within minutes of his arrival, turning him from a joyful young man into a homeless vagabond.
In search of a place to stay, "Wonka" falls prey to the wiles of "Mrs. Scrubbing," the modest inn's owner, who tricks him into signing a contract that binds him to work in her laundry for decades. He joins other workers who have also been deceived over the years, including the orphaned girl "Noodle." On the other side, the young man discovers that the city's candy market is closed off to all but three manufacturers unwilling to accept competition, conspiring with the police chief to prevent "Wonka" from making and selling chocolate.
From here, the real plot of the film unfolds as the hero allies with his fellow laborers, all under the thrall of "Mrs. Scrubbing," to secretly sell chocolate in the city and raise enough money to free themselves. This leads to a series of comical adventures that reveal their true potential and employ their knowledge and skills to achieve success.
Although the film is not a direct adaptation of Roald Dahl's novel, it is faithful to the author's literary style that offers two parallel narratives; a simple and exciting tale for children and deeper, sometimes darker, ideas targeted towards adults and teenagers.
The straightforward story in "Wonka" chronicles the adventure of a young outsider aiming simply to make candy and bring joy to the residents but is thwarted by three villains. On a deeper level, viewers find a more complex plot about the harsh realities of capitalism preventing small economic entities from growing in an unopen market built on monopolies, as well as addressing how young people deal with early loss of their loved ones, like "Wonka," who lost his mother, and "Noodle," who believes she is an orphan.
This duality allows films to endure over the years, becoming classics after decades; for instance, a child watching "Wonka" in 2023 may revisit it in 2043 with their children, discovering the depth of ideas that they may have missed due to their youth.
Wonka.. A Musical Film Revival
"Willy Wonka’s" story has been adapted for the screen twice before, with the older 1971 version being a classic musical film starring Gene Wilder, focusing on the playful and mischievous character of middle-aged "Wonka" who seeks an heir for his chocolate empire he's built over the years.
The 2005 version, directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp, focused more heavily on the concept of family love, suggesting "Wonka" was the son of a troubled family with a candy-hating father, which fueled the son's passion for it. As he looks for an heir for his factory, he finds in return a child that realigns his perceptions and introduces him to the warmth of family love.
The latest "Wonka" film draws significantly from the 1971 version, evident from "Wonka's" purple velvet suit, high brown hat, and cane, as well as the design of the fictional "Oompa Loompas" with their green hair and extremely short stature, contrasting the surreal look from Tim Burton's adaptation.
This inspiration is most clear in the film’s music and soundtrack, where the musical score for the "Wonka" film borrows melodic phrases from the soundtrack of "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," with some songs reorchestrated and lyrics altered. This method of inspiration capitalizes on viewers' nostalgic feelings for a classic film cherished by multiple generations, while simultaneously paving the way for fresh plots, ideas, and themes to rejuvenate the story.
On the other hand, the film belongs to the musical genre, which shone in the mid-20th century, eventually fading over time and known for integrating songs and dances into the original plot. Production elements such as decor, costumes, and the selection of actors who could sing as well as they acted were emphasized.
In the last two decades, American musical films have seen a timid resurgence with a few well-received projects like “La La Land” and the remake of “West Side Story,” mirroring "Wonka."
In this context, "Wonka" presented a visually and audibly distinct experience among 2023 releases, boasting stunning production design, vibrant colors, and lively transitions between dialogue and musical numbers, along with accomplished performances by actors, including those not usually associated with singing. Despite his inexperience in the musical film genre, Timothy Chalamet proved he could hold his own against veteran actors famed for such roles.
"Wonka’s" lead actor has been nominated for a Best Actor Golden Globe, anticipated to receive further accolades at the Oscars. Beyond awards, the film has been a box office success for the end-of-year cinematic season, grossing $465 million against a budget of $125 million thus far.
