The recently announced Willy Wonka prequel film is looking at some big names to tackle the younger version of the iconic character.
Collider reported that multiple sources are saying Warner Bros. is looking at Spider-Man star Tom Holland and Dune lead actor Timothée Chalamet to play a younger version of Willy Wonka for the prequel film Wonka. Yesterday, word broke of the new movie, which will arrive in 2023 and focus on the infamous candy maker in the days before he decides to hand over his operation. Paddington director Paul King will direct the movie from a script by Simon Rich (An American Pickle). Paddington and Harry Potter producer David Heyman is also attached to the project.
The new film will be the third live-action crack at the Roald Dahl character from the book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, released in 1964. Most famously played by Gene Wilder in 1971's Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, 2005's adaptation of the book featured Johnny Depp as a younger version of the character. It also provided some insight into his origin. For now, little is known about the scope or story of the film besides the exploration of Wonka's early life.
Chalamet already has a relationship with Warner Bros. as he'll appear in the blockbuster Dune, itself a book adaptation that's previously been brought to life. Outside of the role, he's best known for his work in critically acclaimed indie films. Holland has also appeared in a number of well-regarded indie movies, with Cherry his latest. He's best known, however, for playing Spider-Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He'll reprise the role later this year for the untitled third film in the franchise that began with Spider-Man: Homecoming.
Wonka is looking to begin production before the summer, though the ongoing pandemic could certainly change things. Elsewhere in the candy-coated world, Taikia Waititi will write, direct and produce two animated series based on Dahl's book. The first will focus on the main story, while the second will delve into the world of the Oompa-Loompas. Both shows are coming to Netflix, which is also releasing a musical version of Matilda, based on Dahl's book of the same name.
Wonka is directed by Paul King and written by Simon Rich. It is scheduled to open theatrically on March 17, 2023.
Source: Collider
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