Taika Waititi and Kit Connor are poised to star in a new animated Netflix adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved classic, Charlie And The Chocolate Factory.
The upcoming production, titled Charlie Vs The Chocolate Factory, draws inspiration from Dahl’s iconic 1964 novel, which famously follows Charlie Bucket’s golden ticket win to tour Willy Wonka’s eccentric confectionery empire.
This contemporary reimagining transports the story to modern-day London, delving into the aftermath of the golden ticket competition.
In a significant twist, the film reveals Wonka has served a prison sentence for the unusual crime of transforming a child into a blueberry.
Award-winning director and actor Waititi will voice Wonka himself, while Connor is cast as Charlie Paley, a new character leading a group of young people determined to infiltrate Wonka’s factory and pilfer one of his coveted chocolate bars.
New Zealander Waititi, who will also executive produce the film, said: “Our directors, Jared (Stern) and Elaine (Bogan), have a bold vision befitting this new adventure whilst remaining sympathetic to the legacy, and I’m thrilled to play my part in bringing Willy Wonka to life in animated form.
“He is so special to me, and the opportunity to voice such an iconic, eccentric candy genius – if a little mischievous at times – is hugely exciting.”
The film will be released next year with original songs and new characters, while promising “surprising returns”.
Connor, best known for starring in hit series Heartstopper, said: “I’m so excited to enter the wonderful world of Wonka.
“I was immediately caught by the early concept art, and the directors’ vision for the film – capturing the spirit and heart that made the original story so special, whilst imbuing it with something so fresh and unique.
“It’s such a fun representation of the London that I know. This new adventure is going to surprise audiences around the world, you’re in for a treat.”
Stern and Bogan said: “Having been raised on the delightfully twisted world of Willy Wonka, it’s a privilege to bring his continued adventures to life as twisted adults.
“And how sweet to do it like never before via the magic of animation, creating a Charlie Vs The Chocolate Factory that’s more deliciously unhinged than your wildest imagination.
“If we do a rotten job, you can throw us down a rubbish chute!”
The classic Dahl tale was first adapted for the big screen as Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory in 1971, with Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka.
Dahl’s best-selling novel was also adapted into 2005 film Charlie And The Chocolate Factory, which was directed by Tim Burton and starred Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter.
It was also adapted into prequel film titled Wonka (2023), which starred Timothee Chalamet as the eccentric chocolatier, following him on his mission to open his first shop.
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