While 2005’s second adaptation of Roald Dhal’s literary classic Charlie and the Chocolate Factory failed to capture the imagination quite like the Gene Wilder-starring 1971 musical, that hasn’t deterred rights-holders Warner Bros, who have pushed on with the development of an original prequel story for the big screen.
Wonka, as it’s simply titled, will explore the early years of the eccentric, candy-loving madman pre-factory (and child murders), and is being helmed by the highly praised Paddington and Paddington 2 director Paul King.
The studio has today announced when we can expect to be buying our (golden) tickets to see the movie*, with a provisional March 17th, 2023 pencilled in. As to who will star in the title role, it’s too early to tell, but given the complications surrounding Johnny Depp over the last few years, we’ll go out on a limb and rule out his return right here.
More Wonka news as we get it!
* That’s if there are still cinemas in 2023, of course.
Source: Deadline
