Wonka has been out for a while now, and the critics have mostly written in favour of this film, but is it that good? I think so. Between the catchy songs and the impressive visuals, the Wonka film creates a world of magic that I want to jump straight into.
The film starting Timothée Chalamet is the latest instalment in Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka world. Although it should be noted this story is an original and not based off the book we know and love so much. I think the film works great on expanding this well-known character without repeating what the two previous films have done. Remakes are the trend in Hollywood at the moment and this film manages to feel more original than that while still bringing a sense of comfort and familiarity.
The plot of the movie follows Willy Wonka as he tries to create his own chocolate shop while facing the difficulties ahead of him. While some may argue the storyline can feel a bit childish in places (it is a film made for children after all), I think the plot works perfectly in being gripping and interesting to an older audience as well. The storyline is fresh and new and you never really know which direction the film is going to take at any point.
The film itself is great fun, although I can see why it wouldn’t be everyone’s cup of tea. The movie is not directly advertised as a musical, but we get our first song within seconds of the film starting. While I understand that some people would see this is a bad thing, to me the added element of music just made the story even better. The songs themselves were well written, composed and have been stuck in my head since I saw the film. The visuals in the film are also something to write home about. The world created is filled with colour and fun, the dance numbers are big and perfectly aligned with the music. The characters are funny but just serious enough to get your attention and make you connect with them.
The world created is filled with colour and fun, the dance numbers are big and perfectly aligned with the music.
The acting in this film is also noteworthy. The cast seems to be stacked with British actors we know from our childhoods. In my opinion the most notable performances were of course Timothée Chalamet who captured the whimsical nature of Willy Wonka perfectly, Olivia Coleman who nails every role she is in, and also Calah Lane who played the lovable Noodle.
Sometimes film critics and audiences focus their love onto serious and impactful movies. While it is important and those movies are often great, I think it is also important to watch fun, colourful films that are filled with pure joy and happiness. Wonka is a perfect example of that childhood fun captured into a movie.
