Wonka (2023) Movie: All You Need to Know

What is Wonka About?

While specific plot details for “Wonka” are still under wraps, the upcoming musical will delve into the early life of Willy Wonka, long before he becomes the legendary chocolatier portrayed in Roald Dahl‘s 1964 children’s novel, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”

At CinemaCon in April 2022, eager fans caught a glimpse of Chalamet’s take on the candy maker when Warner Bros. unveiled exclusive footage. In the footage, Chalamet asks, “Is everybody ready?” before launching into a spirited tap dance on a table, as reported by Variety. The clip concludes with Chalamet reading from a candy wrapper, declaring, “It’s not the chocolate that matters. It’s the people you share it with.”

Who is in the Cast?

Joining Chalamet, who portrays young Willy Wonka, is an ensemble cast of notable names, including Keegan-Michael Key, Rowan Atkinson, Olivia Colman, and Sally Hawkins, who plays Wonka‘s mother. The film also boasts talents like Jim Carter, Matt Lucas, Calah Lane, Natasha Rothwell, and more.

Key, in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter in November 2022, praised Chalamet’s effortless performance as Wonka. He lauded the actor’s charisma and confidence, describing him as a “delicious artist.”

Director Paul King also commended Chalamet in an interview with PEOPLE in July 2023, highlighting the actor’s humor, mischief, and mystery in the role. King expressed admiration for Chalamet’s ability to infuse heart into the character.

In another interview with Rolling Stone, King revealed that Chalamet was his top choice for the role of Willy Wonka. He cited Chalamet’s undeniable talent and even referenced the actor’s high school musical performances on YouTube, which had garnered hundreds of thousands of views.

At CinemaCon 2023, it was announced that Hugh Grant would appear in the film as one of Willy Wonka‘s Oompa Loompas, a surprise revelation that delighted both the audience and Chalamet. Chalamet described working with Grant as a dream come true, acknowledging Grant as one of the greats in the industry.

Fans received another sneak peek at Grant’s Oompa Loompa character in July 2023 when PEOPLE shared exclusive stills from the movie, including one featuring Grant in costume inside a jar.

Who is Directing Wonka?

The director’s chair for “Wonka” is occupied by Paul King, known for his work on the beloved “Paddington” series. Keegan-Michael Key, during the premiere of his Hulu series Reboot, described King as a delightful and childlike-hearted director, the perfect choice for this project. King co-wrote the screenplay alongside Simon Farnaby and Simon Rich.

Is there a Trailer for Wonka?

The much-anticipated first trailer for “Wonka” was unveiled in July 2023. The trailer opens with Chalamet declaring, “I’ve spent the past seven years traveling the world perfecting my craft.” Viewers are treated to glimpses of his character sailing on a boat and exploring a lush jungle. Chalamet describes himself as a “magician, inventor, and chocolate maker.” The trailer features scenes of people levitating after enjoying Wonka‘s candy creations and playful interactions with an Oompa Loompa portrayed by Hugh Grant. The Oompa Loompa warns that the famed song-and-dance routine cannot be stopped.

Where is Wonka Being Filmed?

Filming for “Wonka” took place at various locations, including London’s iconic Abbey Road studio, Oxford, England, and several undisclosed settings.

When Will Wonka Be Released?

Originally slated for release on March 17, 2023, Warner Bros. announced at CinemaCon 2022 that “Wonka” would hit theaters on December 15, 2023.

With its promise of exploring the origin story of the beloved Willy Wonka and Timothée Chalamet’s multifaceted performance, “Wonka” is poised to be a delightful cinematic treat for audiences in December 2023.