Netflix today announced a new animated film Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory, bringing a new twist to the classic Willy Wonka story. Kit Connor (Heartstopper, Warfare) and Taika Waititi (Our Flag Means Death, Jojo Rabbit) will lead the voice cast, and the film will be set in modern day London.
Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory is directed by Jared Stern (The Lego Batman Movie, DC League of Super-Pets) and Elaine Bogan (Spirit Untamed, DreamWorks Dragons). Aron Warner (Wish Dragon, Shrek) and Timothy Yoo (Back to the Outback, Alpha and Omega) produce with Waititi serving as Executive Producer.
Due out in 2027, the synopsis for Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory reads, “Willy Wonka (Waititi) has spent the years since the Golden Ticket contest behind bars (not the chocolate kind) for the crime of turning a child into a blueberry. Having served his time, Wonka returns to his factory determined to add a little sweetness to a bitter world. But one thing stands in his way: teenager Charlie Paley (Connor) and his friends. Facing eviction, this next generation of “rotten” kids plot to break into the factory, nab a priceless Wonka Bar, and save their homes. But like many before them who enter the fantastical world of the factory, these kids are in for a bit more than they can chew…”
“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!” Connor tells Netflix.
“Our directors, Jared and Elaine, 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,” Waititi adds.
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