Charlie Bucket proved himself worthy through honesty and kindness in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, ultimately inheriting Wonka’s famed factory. Now, Netflix’s “Charlie vs The Chocolate Factory” appears to be asking a darker question: what happens after the fairy tale ending, when Willy Wonka is released from jail for turning a child into a blueberry and is left to navigate a world still full of rotten kids?
The new film, set in modern-day London, follows Wonka (Taika Waititi) as he returns to his factory determined to add a little sweetness to a bitter world. Standing in his way, however, is teenager Charlie Paley (Kit Connor) and his friends. Facing eviction, this new generation of “rotten” kids plots to break into the factory, steal a priceless Wonka Bar, and save their homes. But like many before them who entered Wonka’s fantastical world, these kids are about to get far more than they bargained for.
Netflix spent heavily to acquire the Roald Dahl Story Company in September 2021, with reports placing the deal at more than £500 million. That kind of investment makes it clear the streamer is eager to mine Dahl’s library for titles that can justify the price tag.
“I’m so excited to enter the wonderful world of Wonka. I was immediately caught by the early concept art, and the directors’ vision for the film – capturing the spirit and heart that made the original story so special, whilst imbuing it with something so fresh and unique,” Connor said. “It’s such a fun representation of the London that I know. This new adventure is going to surprise audiences around the world, you’re in for a treat!”
“Having been raised on the delightfully twisted world of Willy Wonka, it’s a privilege to bring his continued adventures to life as twisted adults,” Directors Jared Stern said. “And how sweet to do it like never before via the magic of animation, creating a Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory that’s more deliciously unhinged than your wildest imagination. If we do a rotten job, you can throw us down a rubbish chute!”
“Our directors, Jared and Elaine, have a bold vision befitting this new adventure whilst remaining sympathetic to the legacy, and I’m thrilled to play my part in bringing Willy Wonka to life in animated form,” Waititi said. “He is so special to me, and the opportunity to voice such an iconic, eccentric candy genius—if a little mischievous at times—is hugely exciting.”
