After years in development, Warner Bros are finally moving forward with the ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ prequel ‘Wonka’.
Plot details for ‘Wonka’ have been kept heavily under wraps, though the upcoming adaptation will centre on Willy Wonka’s earlier days prior to operating his elaborate house of confectionary creations.
Based on Roald Dahl’s popular children’s book ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,’ the story follows a poor boy named Charlie, who is one of five youngsters to win a golden ticket to tour the world-renowned, yet highly secretive, chocolate factory run by Willy Wonka. Gene Wilder played the character in 1971’s ‘Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.’ Johnny Depp later portrayed the famed chocolatier in the Tim Burton-directed 2005 reboot.
Tim Burton’s version vaguely touched on his past focusing on Wonka’s father who was a dentist who loathed sugary treats of any kind. It’s also unclear whether the hardworking Oompa Loompas who later keep his sweet-filled factory running will make an appearance in the movie.
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Paddington’s Paul King will take the helm on the prequel. The story will be based on a script by Simon Rich, Simon Farnaby also co-wrote. David Heyman will produce.
Casting is expected to be announced soon. Warner Bros are currently eyeing a release date of March 17th 2023.
