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Timothee Chalamet to play a young Willy Wonka in new origin tale based on Roald Dahl’s iconic character

Timothee Chalamet is ready to give a new twist to the iconic inventor and chocolate maker in Warner Bros. and Roald Dahl Story Co’s Wonka. The film is the origin story of Willy Wonka, the beloved character created by author Roald Dahl. It will focus on the life of a young Willy Wonka and his adventures prior to opening the world’s most famous chocolate factory. According to an online portal, the film will also see Chalamet showcase his dancing and singing skills with several musical numbers. Apparently, Chalamet was the top choice for the role but scheduling was a hurdle as he had to undergo training for the dance numbers as prep for the film.

The film is being directed by Paul King from a screenplay written by Simon Farnaby (with prior writers including Simon Rich, Simon Stephenson, Jeff Nathanson and Steven Levenson). David Heyman is producing the film along with Luke Kelly, Michael Siegel and Alexandra Derbyshire.

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This is the third time WB has taken on the story of Willy Wonka. The previous versions have been adaptationa of Dahl’s classic novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The first adaptation made in 1971 starred Gene Wilder as Wonka and the second one made in 2005 starred Johnny Depp in the iconic role. Wonka also appeared in Dahl’s sequel Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator which was published in 1972.

Reportedly, the new film will mark the first time Charlie Bucket will not be featured in the film. The studio had described the film as focusing on "a young Willy Wonka and his adventures prior to opening the world’s most famous chocolate factory." The film’s release date was announced earlier as March 17, 2023.

(Source: Deadline)

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