Roald Dahl’s children’s book, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, first published in 1964, has spawned two film adaptations, and very recently, a backstory about the “candy man” himself, Mr Willy Wonka. Of the two film adaptations, one is an iconic classic. I don’t know why they bothered to remake it. The original from 1971, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, is a true top-rated, top-shelf, all-time favorite. This is not a mirror image, and actually, I prefer the story in the film as opposed to the original book. Add in the story, the songs, and Gene Wilder delivering a brilliant performance, this is a great film. Wilder’s performance actually makes the film. He’s the true star, the “scene stealer.” The actor in the role who made the film what it is and why it’s loved. I can’t write enough about his performance. On a very special note, in 2014, the Library of Congress selected Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory for preservation in the United States National Film Registry. It’s been sometime since I’ve reviewed a film with such a high honor.
As for Roald Dahl, I never realized he wrote the screenplay based on his own book. The two stories are similar, yet a lot changes along the way. No mirror images on this one. Mel Stuart sat in the director’s chair. Stan Margulies and David L. Wolper produced. Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley wrote all those wonderful songs. Wolper Pictures served as the production company. Paramount Pictures took care of distribution. Mr. Wonka introduced his chocolate factory to theater audiences on July 30, 1971. Dahl actually hated the film. He found the songs “saccharine and sappy.” He also didn’t care for all the changes, so much focus on Wonka over Charlie, and Wilder’s performance because he wanted another actor in the role.
Lucky for us, we got a better story and Gene Wilder. Who else is here we might know? Leonard Stone from Soylent Green as Sam Beauregarde. Roy Kinnear, as Mr. Salt, has a slew of credits. The Twilight Zone alum and a many of many credits, Jack Albertson, is on hand as lovable scamp Grandpa Joe. Peter Ostrum plays Charlie Bucket in his one and only acting role.
A lady who used to watch my sister and I when we were young showed us Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory on one such occasion. I’ve loved it ever since. The film runs 100 minutes, or roughly an hour and 39 minutes. Maybe a slower song brings a lull, particularly the one by Charlie’s mother. The film flies by, especially once Wilder makes his grand eccentric entrance. If you’ve never seen this film, Christ, what are you doing with your life? Go watch it. If you’ve seen it, eh, go watch it again.
Copyright © Drew Martin 2024
Drew Martin Writes 