Netflix’s ‘wild’ reboot of film based on classic story | Films | Entertainment

Netflix has confirmed a ‘wild’ new take on a beloved classic story is on the way.

Revealed today (April 16), the streaming platform has now disclosed an forthcoming animated film scheduled to launch at some point in 2027.

Furthermore, they have announced that Heartstopper star Kit Connor is poised to headline the voice cast.

He will be accompanied by comedic performer and director Taika Waititi, recognised for helming and appearing in Jojo Rabbit and Thor Ragnarok. They will both feature in Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory.

Nevertheless, it appears that while it will draw from the classic Roald Dahl novel, it will present an entirely fresh narrative.

Netflix purchased the Roald Dahl Story Company in 2021, obtaining rights to the writer’s cherished IP although this appears to be the first endeavour at broadening the universe of tales.

Connor will portray the character of Charlie Paley. While sharing the same first name, he is described as a wholly new character rather than Charlie Bucket who features in the original tale. Waititi will voice larger-than-life legendary chocolatier Willy Wonka , reports the Mirror.

The Netflix original is helmed by seasoned animated directors Jared Stern and Elaine Bogan. Collectively they have previously directed The Lego Batman Movie, Spirit Untamed and Trollhunters.

According to the synopsis, Willy Wonka has spent the years following the Golden Ticket competition imprisoned for the offence of transforming a child into a blueberry. Having completed his sentence, Wonka returns to his factory resolved to introduce a touch of sweetness to a harsh world. However, one obstacle stands in his path: teenager Charlie Paley and his companions.

Confronting eviction, this new generation of “rotten” youngsters scheme to infiltrate the factory, seize a valuable Wonka Bar, and rescue their homes. Yet like many previously who venture into the fantastical realm of the factory, these youngsters are in for somewhat more than they can manage.

The narrative is reportedly set in present-day London, and the creators hope it preserves the quintessentially British charm associated with Roald Dahl’s original work while featuring a fresh adventure, original songs, brand new characters and some surprises. Netflix anticipates this new chapter set in the world of Wonka will introduce a new generation to its universe and characters.

Kit Connor remarked: “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, while 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!” Fans responding to the announcement have been divided over whether the film is a worthwhile concept. Early reactions have already labelled the project the ‘most unhinged Charlie and the Chocolate Factory film’.

Yet others remained optimistic about the premise, with one person posting on social media: “So we’re finally addressing the blueberry incident?? This is about to be chaotic.”

Another declared: “Giving Taika Waititi a darker weird version of Willy Wonka could either be genius or a total mess but at least its trying something new instead of recycling the same story.”

A further user added: “Wait… he went to prison for turning a kid into a blueberry? This is going to be wild!” while an enthusiastic fan remarked: “This sounds like pure chaos in the best way-Taika Waititi as Wonka already guarantees it won’t be anything close to normal.”

Charlie Vs the Chocolate Factory is streaming on Netflix soon.