Pop Culture | Movies | 70s | Retro
Brace Yourselves: They're Remaking Willy Wonka Again
Yes, it's been 13 short years since Hollywood remade Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, so that must mean it's time for another try.
The original film based on the Roald Dahl novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is considered a classic children's film, and the late Gene Wilder's performance as the quirky chocolate maker is remembered as the best role of his career.
Of course, if you grew up watching the original movie, you probably have some strong feelings about the 2005 remake starring Johnny Depp as the famous chocolateer.
Whether you liked the re-imagining, or think the original film is untouchable, Warner Brothers has decided to take another bite at the snozzberry with a new adaptation.
The Hollywood Reporter revealed that Paul King, the director behind the wildly successful Paddington movies, is set to direct the new film.
A handful of details about the new production have also been shared, and they've definitely raised a few eyebrows.
The new film's producer, David Heyman, shared some story details with /Film:
“It’s not a remake," he said, "They’ve done two films, quite different. But it’s possibly an origin story."
"I think there’s a lot in his character that suggests who he is and also where he might come from or what his childhood or his middle age might have been like. So we’re exploring that."
That's right, the remake - which is currently titled Willy Wonka - will be a prequel to the original film.
It seems like Warner Brothers is hoping to launch a Fantastic Beasts-style spin-off series following young Wonka's adventures.
There's no word yet on who will be stepping into Gene Wilder and Johnny Depp's shoes to play Wonka, but we'll be sure to fill you in when we know more.
One more piece of Roald Dahl news was also included in the announcement:
Hellboy director Guillermo del Toro has written a screenplay for a remake of The Witches, and it's rumored that Who Framed Roger Rabbit director Robert Zemeckis is interested in directing.
Should some movies just be left alone?