The magic of Wonka

Adapted from both Willy Wonka films and Roald Dahl’s classic novel comes a magical and bittersweet movie that makes us “quiet up and listen down!” From Paddington director Paul King – as well as Harry Potter producer David Heyman – the fun-filled film follows the backstory of how Willy Wonka became who he is today. Since its release in December last year, the film has earned itself about $600 million at the box office worldwide, proving to be a ‘hit’ of 2023 (and 2024). Wonka has even been nominated for awards including the Critic’s Choice award for “Best Young Actor/Actress,” the people’s choice award for “The Comedy Movie of the Year,” and even a BAFTA for “Outstanding British Film of the Year!”

Wonka follows the story of a young Willy Wonka (Timothée Chalamet), who is set on his lifelong dream of changing the world, one chocolate at a time. However, he is faced with the of the infamous chocolate cartel, the “Dahl-esque” Scrubbit and Bleacher – as well as an Oompa Loompa called Lofty (Hugh Grant) who tries to steal his Willy’s chocolates! As Willy overcomes these adversities, he befriends an orphan girl called Noodle (Calah Lane) and the other captives of Mrs. Scrubbit’s laundromat. And together, they help Willy Wonka’s dreams come true.

Overall, Wonka is a wonderful film for the whole family, and I hope that one day we might see some more ‘Wonka-related’ films in the future!

Ruby C, Year 8