Wonka Movie (2023) Summary Review, Cast
“Candy doesn’t have to have a point. That’s why it’s candy.”
In 2005’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” the whimsical Willy Wonka once shared that “candy is dandy, but liquor is quicker.” Now, in filmmaker Paul King’s prequel “Wonka,” inspired by Roald Dahl’s iconic Wonka books but not bound by them, we’re treated to a delightful two-hour musical comedy that embodies this sweet sentiment. The film aspires to tug at our heartstrings, yet its primary goal is to entertain, enchant, and elicit cheers when the villains meet their inevitable defeat.
From performances to costumes, songs to choreography, “Wonka” delivers a level of quality that goes above and beyond, surpassing the mere necessities for a successful project. As executives often say, it’s a pre-sold property — after all, who isn’t familiar with and fond of Willy Wonka? The film invites the audience not only to shed a sentimental tear or two but mainly to revel in the joy, laughter, and triumph that this whimsical journey promises.
It’s undeniably formulaic — a fact that “Wonka” proudly acknowledges. With a generous sprinkling of self-referential jokes and a plethora of outrageous puns, the film walks the fine line between insufferable and charming, miraculously landing on the side of the latter. From the get-go, director Paul King, co-writer Simon Farnaby, and their collaborators establish and maintain a tone that is both controlled and well-paced. The film doesn’t shy away from satirical or metaphorical elements, weaving them into the narrative as subtle touches, often presented as sight gags to preserve the overall sweetness without overwhelming it.
Our protagonist, Wonka (played by Timothee Chalamet), and his steadfast companion Noodle (Calah Lane), the resilient and resourceful orphan, form a duo that automatically earns our sympathy. Wonka’s connection to his past, symbolized by the last chocolate bar crafted by his jungle-raised candy-maker mother (depicted in flashbacks by Sally Hawkins), adds layers to his character and serves as a wellspring of inspiration. The story’s primary antagonists come in the form of a formidable trio of businessmen — Paterson Joseph’s Slugworth, Matt Lucas’s Prodnose, and Matthew Banton’s Fickelgruber. Together, they control the candy industry, manipulate the city’s corrupt police force, and ensure that entering the business is nearly impossible for anyone else. The central narrative, revolving around young Wonka’s pursuit of success as a chocolatier, echoes a template reminiscent of Horatio Alger-inspired tales, where an ambitious young individual from the countryside arrives in the big city, facing challenges and setbacks but driven by determination.
“Wonka” masterfully balances its formulaic elements with an abundance of wit, whimsy, and heart, making it a delightful cinematic confection.
A cautionary note echoes through “Wonka” as a character warns, “The greedy beat the needy every time.” This theme is vividly illustrated from the film’s opening musical sequence, where Wonka, armed with a mere six farthings, navigates the world of legally mandatory expenses, including fines for daydreaming. His journey takes a twist when he finds refuge in the seemingly benevolent Mrs. Scrubbit’s inn, overseen by her right-hand man, the imposing Bleacher.
However, the warmth quickly fades as Wonka realizes that his stay comes with an unexpected cost — every action he takes adds a new charge to his growing bill, including the simple act of walking upstairs to his room. The film introduces a Dahl-esque touch, bordering on Dickensian, as constant fines are imposed on the less affluent, highlighting a stark societal divide. The cruelty of characters, manifested in slaps, punches, and kicks towards the powerless, particularly Noodle, emphasizes the harsh realities faced by those who lack privilege, drawing parallels to a world reminiscent of Dickens’ tales.
In “Wonka,” our protagonist finds himself relegated to a basement laundry processing facility, alongside other indentured servants like Abacus Crunch, once an accountant to Slugworth, and the spirited Noodle. The bond that quickly forms between Wonka and Noodle introduces a sibling-like dynamic, injecting a fresh and appealing dimension into the narrative. Wonka’s aspirations to liberate his fellow workers elevate his pursuit of success in the chocolate business — his motivation extends beyond personal gain, encompassing the well-being of his newfound companions and his mother.
However, the path to victory is far from smooth. The script, relentless in its challenges, ensures that Wonka faces setbacks, often taking two steps back for every step forward. This dynamic is visually emphasized, such as in a scene where Chalamet, portraying Wonka, literally takes steps backward down a staircase — a rare yet effective metaphor conveyed through the actor’s footwork.
The narrative unfolds with elaborate plans unraveling due to unforeseen circumstances or the influence of villains. Wonka and Noodle showcase their quick-witted improvisation skills, navigating through the unexpected twists. As a fantasy, sometimes bordering on the cartoonish, the film keeps the audience guessing about the extent of Wonka’s resources. There’s a whimsical ambiguity surrounding whether he might be an otherworldly creature with only conditioning or psychology as limitations. The chocolate-making “travel kit” he carries is practically a miniature factory with its seemingly self-sufficient power source. Read More
