Audiences are hailing the film as one of the finest family viewing experiences available, with many declaring it so enchanting that they have watched it multiple times. The ‘magical’ prequel to what countless fans regard as an ‘absolute classic’ is leaving viewers an ‘emotional wreck’ following its arrival on Netflix.
As of today (June 16), Wonka is now available to stream on the platform. The film is set prior to the events of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, released back in 1971, which was itself an adaptation of Roald Dahl’s much-loved children’s novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The picture was co-written and directed by British filmmaker Paul King.
King began his career in television, contributing to episodes of cult comedy series The Mighty Boosh, Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace and mockumentary Come Fly With Me, before going on to direct both Paddington films.
King crafted the screenplay alongside Simon Farnaby, best known for his appearances in beloved sitcoms such as The Detectorists and Ghosts. The outstanding cast features Timothée Chalamet in the titular role of Wonka, with Hugh Grant portraying Oompa-Loompa Lofty, reports the Mirror.
They are joined by an impressive array of talent including Matt Lucas, Keegan-Michael Key, Rowan Atkinson and Olivia Colman. A wealth of other familiar British comedic faces and actors also feature, among them Phil Wang, Mathew Baynton, Tom Davis, Ellie White and Isy Suttie.
According to its synopsis, the film’s narrative explores the backstory of Dahl’s ‘most iconic’ tale. It recounts the extraordinary journey of how the world’s greatest inventor, magician and chocolate-maker transformed into the cherished character we recognise today.
It follows a youthful and impoverished Willy Wonka arriving in Europe with aspirations of becoming a renowned chocolatier. However, a dishonest cartel of competing businessmen blocks his path.
While many acknowledge they viewed the film cautiously when it initially premiered in cinemas in 2023, it appeared to win over numerous viewers. This is evidenced by the fact that not only does it possess an impressive rating of 82% on website Rotten Tomatoes but it also holds a fan score of 90%.
Many have posted their endorsements online such as one fan who remarked: “This was a wonderful reimagining of an old classic. Great songs and little nods to original scenes.”
Another went so far as to describe it as a “timeless masterpiece” before adding: “Wonka stands as a cinematic triumph leaving audiences spellbound with its impeccable craftsmanship. From the opening scenes to the grand finale, every aspect of the film is meticulously curated, showcasing a level of excellence rarely seen in contemporary cinema.”
One fan confessed after viewing they were left “bit of an emotional wreck.”
They continued: “Such a lovely film. I’ve always loved the Gene Wilder version since a child. There are so many nods to that version. I spent a lot of the movie with tears rolling down my face.
“There are some amazing scenes. Especially when they are dancing over the rooftops of London. Hugh Grant is just so brilliant and funny as an Oompa Loompa. This film just blew me away. It is utter movie magic. It has everything. A heart warming, tear jerking, show stopping, pure imagination, whale of a ride.”
Wonka is streaming on Netflix