The tale all began from the original novel, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, written by Roald Dahl in 1964. Then it was released as a musical film in 1971 as, Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, which we all have experienced at some point in our life. Later the adventure was released in 2005 under the original book title as, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. What we all never knew was how it all began. This is the origin story of the Chocolate factory and how Willie Wonka created his empire, from the streets as an inexperienced salesman to the world renown Candyman he produced. 
Arriving in Europe, Willie Wonka (Timothee Chalamet) is a poor young lad with ambitions to be the best candy maker. What he comes to find out is that it will not be easy. During his difficult exploration he unintentionally meets a few characters that will help him shape his future. While held up in an unexpected place he meets Abacus Crunch (Jim Carter), Lottie Bell (Rakhee Thakrar), Piper Benz (Natasha Rothwell), Larry Chucklesworth (Rich Fulcher), and Noodle (Calah Lane), who will all become key components to his quest. With their help Willie is able to discover a way to find his dream.
When Willie shows the world of his chocolate creations at the Galleries Gourmet, he is foiled by Arthur Slugworth (Paterson Joseph), Gerald Prodnose (Matt Lucas), and Felix Fickelgruber (Mathew Baynton), the leaders of the three strongest candy businesses. With help from Chief of Police (Keegan-Michael Key), Mrs. Scrubbit (Olivia Colman), and Mr. Bleacher (Tom Davis), it becomes almost impossible for Wonka to sell his unique magical and full of fun chocolate candy. Since the Chocolate leaders do not want Willie to succeed, it becomes his fight against the industry, and he has to conquer the earth’s largest candy conglomerates to do so. Now, Willie needs to find a way to show everyone his wonderful surprises and someday have his innovations known to everybody.
Director and writer Paul King did an excellent job putting together this fantastic musical exploration that brings you back in time to discover the true origin of Willie Wonka. Keeping true to the original films format from the 70’s, Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, gives you the feel that this film came straight out of the past. He developed an excellent storyline with a magnificent performance from that cast that also included many original songs from the 1971 film along with some new ones.
The nostalgic setting that places you into a world around the turn of the century displays the struggles that occurred during those times. Having you plunged into this period allows us to envision our hero before he became the world’s best candy maker. Presenting this delightful harmonious journey will bring a smile to your face and fill your heart with joy. 
Final Comment: I based my grade on the spectacular musical talents, the outstanding storyline, and the remarkable performance by the cast.
Stars 4.5 out of 5
Additional Film Information
Cast: Timothee Chalamet, Calah Lane, Jim Carter, Rakhee Thakrar, Natasha Rothwell, Rich Fulcher, Paterson Joseph, Matt Lucas, Mathew Baynton, Tom Davis, Olivia Colman, Hugh Grant, Rowan Atkinson, and Keegan-Michael Key.
Directed and written by: Paul King
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Family, Fantasy, and Musical.
MPAA Rating: Rated PG for some violence, mild language and thematic elements.
Running Time: 1 hour and 56 minutes
Release Date: December 15, 2023
Distributed By: Warner Brothers
Release In: Dolby Digital, IMAX, Dolby Surround Sound, Dolby Atmos, and Standard.
