New footage from the upcoming Wonka was shown off at 2023’s CinemaCon, along with the news that the film will star Hugh Grant as an Ooma Loompa.
During Warner Bros. Discovery’s presentation at the annual trade show, footage from its upcoming movie based on the Roald Dahl character Willy Wonka was shown. According to ComicBook.com’s Brandon Davis, Timothée Chalamet’s Wonka can be seen on a tropical island, describing himself as a magician, inventor, and chocolate maker.
The footage also shows Wonka presenting chocolate with a magical effect to people, before it closes with Willy Wonka meeting Hugh Grant as an Oompa Loompa trapped in a large jar.
In a brief message from Chalamet, he described the upcoming take on Willy Wonka as one that is much less cynical than the one that Gene Wilder played in the iconic 1971 film. “This is a Willy that is full of joy and hope,” said Chalamet.
The news that Hugh Grant would be starring in the movie also confirms a report from last year. It’s unclear whether or not Grant will play just one Oompa Loompa or many, however.
“The film is based on characters by Roald Dahl, inspired especially by one of Dahl’s most beloved characters, Willy Wonka, and takes place before the events of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” reads the synopsis.
The movie also stars Rowan Atkinson, Matthew Baynton, Jim Carter, Olivia Colman, Tom Davis, Simon Farnaby, Rich Fulcher, Sally Hawkins, Kobna Holdbrook-Smith, Paterson Joseph, Keegan-Michael Key, Calah Lane, Matt Lucas, Colin O’Brien, Natasha Rothwell, Rakhee Thakrar, and Ellie White.
Wonka is directed by BAFTA nominee Paul King (Paddington, The Mighty Boosh) who wrote the screenplay along with Simon Farnaby. Producers include David Heyman, Luke Kelly, and Alexandra Derbyshire.