Wonka - A Sweet and Playful Take on Willy's Early Adventures



If you're ready for a big, buoyant, and sometimes downright ridiculous ride, Paul King's Wonka is the movie for you. Stepping into the origins of Willy Wonka, played with genuine appeal by Timothée Chalamet, this film is a visual treat, much like King's previous triumphs with the 'Paddington' movies.

Childhood memories were defined by Mel Stuart’s 1971 Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, where Gene Wilder's portrayal left an indelible mark. Paul King's take on the prequel, Wonka, is a bold step into an early version of the iconic chocolatier's life. Set in a whimsical European city, Willy's dream of opening a chocolate and candy shop in the swanky Galeries Gourmet is at the heart of the narrative.

Chalamet's Willy is naive, wide-eyed, and mad for chocolate, a trait inherited from his mother (Sally Hawkins). The plot revolves around his attempt to win over the city with uniquely crafted sweets, encountering the formidable Chocolate Cartel along the way. The dynamic between Willy, Monica, and Kamala is genuinely delightful, injecting joy into the film.

In contrast to Wilder's assured candymaker, Chalamet's Wonka is odd and off-center. With singing and dancing throughout, he brings a quirky charm to the character, and his top hat, filled with mysteries and daily necessities, adds to the whimsy.

The supporting cast, including Hugh Grant as a cheeky orange Oompa Loompa, elevates the film. Grant steals the show with his charismatic performance, injecting a delightful energy reminiscent of his role in King's Paddington 2.

The movie's musical numbers, predominantly original, are a highlight, with Chalamet's "A World of Your Own" making a significant impact. The visual style, influenced by a range of European aesthetics, creates a colorful and fun backdrop, at times defying the laws of physics. Wonka feels more like a theater production, and King masterfully embraces this with practical effects and grandiose set pieces.

The film, akin to Paddington's charm, is warm-hearted and infectious in its delight. There's no malice in Wonka; it's a movie about a dreamer that encourages dreaming. The stakes are low, the climactic sequence is flighty and entertaining, and the overall experience is filled with whimsy and levity.

In conclusion, Wonka is a delightful addition to the Willy Wonka lore, offering a sweet escape with its charming characters and playful storytelling. One important note before heading to the theater: Bring chocolate. You'll want it when you see the delectable treats on the screen!


watch streaming now

0 Komentar