Plot: What’s it about?
When I think of the current state of affairs in Hollywood, it makes me scratch my head. Yes, they are putting out some original content, but by and large the industry is plagued by unoriginality. I was recently visiting with a friend of my family who’s very opinionated. The topic turned to movies and I told her what I did (this site) and we collectively rolled our eyes over the movies coming out nowadays. Superhero movies, remakes, reboots, sequels that didn’t need to be made and prequels. I mean…do we really need some of these? Take Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. I enjoyed it, but it only served to fill a plot hole in a movie that was a few decades old (spoiler: it’s now the rebels got the plans to the Death Star). At any rate, we’ve now got a prequel to one of the most beloved classics of all-time: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Do we need to know Willy Wonka’s origin story? Like it or not, we’re about to find out.
Willy Wonka (Timothée Chalamet) is attempting to open a shop in the middle of a fancy marketplace only to have three of his rivals try and make him fail. They’ve got the local Chief of Police (Keegan-Michael Key), a priest (Rowan Atkinson) to help them in their efforts. Wonka is being held hostage by Mrs. Scrubbit (Olivia Colman) all the while. With the help of Noodle (Calah Lane), he’s got to find a way to escape to introduce his candies to the world. And, yes, that’s about it. Given that this is a prequel, we know he succeeds and revolutionizes the confection industry, but getting there is half the fun and this is how it happened.
Director Paul King, best-known for his direction on Paddington and Paddington 2, seems like a good fit for this film. It’s quick-witted and fun to watch. There were a few more musical numbers than I was expecting, but it does make things fun for the viewer. Chalamet does a fine job as Wonka, too. Let’s face it – these are big shoes to fill and he does so with relative ease. I have to say that he’s a very talented actor. Simply put, this one’s got it all and if you’re a fan of the character or just want a good family movie to watch – look no further. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it but make a prequel of it, OK?
Video: How’s it look?
When I sit back and think about it, this is one of those films that’s really meant for the 4K format. Colors seem to leap off the screen with vibrant reds and oranges, emerald greens and everything in between. This 2.39:1 HEVC 4K transfer really brings out the best this film has to offer and though not perfect, it’s pretty close. The HDR does add some depth and more highs and lows to the various scenes. The increase in detail is evident and I found that while grain still persists, it’s more naturalistic. We knew what to expect when putting this disc in and it delivered.
Audio: How’s it sound?
Again, being a new film, the Dolby Atmos soundtrack makes the most of what it has to offer. And if offers a lot! There are several musical numbers which take full advantage of any and all speakers in your repository, booming bass and a wide front channel only add to the allure. Vocals are to notch as well with surrounds adding plenty of atmosphere along the way. I could go on and on, but suffice it to say that this one delivers on all levels. And channels.
Supplements: What are the extras?
- Unwrapping Wonka: Paul King’s Vision – Revered director Paul King takes you on a deep dive into his experience adapting the beloved story of Wonka.
- The Whimsical Music of Wonka – Composer Joby Talbot and songwriter Neil Hannon take you into the studio to illuminate the craft behind the wondrous songs of the film.
- Welcome to Wonka Land - Production designer Nathan Crowley and the rest of the Wonka”crew discuss creating the magical sets that transport audiences to the worlds of the film.
- Hats Off to Wonka – Costume designer Lindy Hemming breaks down the inspiration and intention behind each of the character’s wonderful costumes.
- Wonka’s Chocolatier - Chocolatier Gabriella Cugno provides an in-depth look at the creatin of the beautiful chocolates seen in Wonka.
- Musical Moments – A quick access function that lets you skip to the song in question.
The Bottom Line
Depending on how you feel about remakes, prequels or reboots – I have to say that I did enjoy this one. Did we need it? No. But then again, do we really need any movies? Warner’s disc is reference-quality and makes for a nice, well-rounded pacakge.
