As a child, I remember fondly watching “Willy Wonka and the chocolate factory” (1971) on TV many times. In more recent years, a remake called “Charlie and the chocolate factory” (2005) was released with Johnny Depp and this latest film “Wonka” is a prequel of how Willy became Wonka.
We visited Showcase cinema in Coventry on New Years Day as they were showing the film almost hourly with plenty of viewings. A popular film over the Christmas period.
Starring Timothee Chalamet as Wonka, the film comes in at 2 hours and was filmed in the UK. Starring many familiar faces and cameos from UK artists. Olivia Colman and Hugh Grant being stand out names.
The film is wonderful to view visually with amazing set pieces bringing the story to life.
While my wife and daughter enjoyed the film, I had more of a mixed reaction. While appreciating many aspects of the film, as a musical, I felt that it lacked on the musical score with no stand out musical pieces.
Hugh Grant was for me the best part of the film, portraying an Oompa Loompa called Lofty. While only appearing a few times, he stole the show along with an appearance in the closing credits and singing.
Olivia Coleman was excellent as Mrs Scrubbit along with comedian Tom Davis who played Bleacher. Both providing comic moments. While I was not familiar with Timothee Chalamet, he did put in an excellent and believable performance as Wonka.
While generally a good film, I felt let down by the musical score which lacked the magic needed to elevate the film into musical classic territory.
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