Wonka: Review

Spoilers Ahead!

 

While nothing ground breaking with this new version, Wonka has plenty of heart and charm for the whole family.

The story line was a lot different than I was expecting. While I loved the fact that the movie didn't try and go with a dark tone, I wish it had more of the Oompa Loompas. But, I loved the fact they had a bunch of callbacks to Gene Wilder's Willy Wonka movie, and that the story line had likable characters, and plenty of heart to it. The story line was pretty predictable at times though, which was a bit disappointing.

The acting was really good. Loved Timothee Chalamet's performance as Willy Wonka. He really did a great job at coming across as very likable, and charismatic. Chalamet also had a really good singing voice. Hugh Grant absolutely stole the show as Lofty the Oompa Loompa. I really wish Grant had more screen time though. He was so funny, and added a lot to it.

The visual effects looked really good as well. I loved the ending where it shows Willy Wonka making his chocolate factory, and showing the first room in the Willy Wonka movies, where you could eat anything. The CGI on the Oompa Loompa looked really good as well.

The humor was good as well. Really glad that they didn't do a bunch of cringe humor that would appeal to kids, but make older people groan in disgust.

The songs were solid as well. While not as memorable as the original Willy Wonka songs, they didn't feel forced which was very nice. 

I can't see how they could do a sequel. I think it serves well as a standalone movie, and making a sequel would feel very hard, and forced IMO. 

Out of 4 stars I would give it...

3 out of 4 stars