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‘Willy Wonka’ prequel movie in the works


We’re getting a new “Willy Wonka” movie, apparently, and this time, it’s going to be about the eccentric chocolatier’s adventures prior to the events in the books and films.

Yes, the new movie will be a prequel, though not an origin story. It will, instead, revolve around Willy Wonka’s “early adventures.”

As the only other “Willy Wonka” book that Road Dahl authored was the sequel to “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” the movie will most likely feature brand new, never-before-seen material. The 2005 Tim Burton remake did provide flashbacks that offered glimpses into Wonka’s globetrotting exploits, so it’s possible we’ll be seeing the character travelling the world in search of the perfect chocolate recipes.

David Heyman will produce the movie alongside Roald Dahl estate manager Michael Siegel. Heyman produced the eight massively successful “Harry Potter” films, as well as the upcoming “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.” Simon Rich will be performing the writing duties.

Roald Dahl’s 1964 book was adapted into films twice. The first was 1971’s “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory,” which was directed by Mel Stuart, and starred the late Gene Wilder in his iconic turn as Willy Wonka. In 2005, Tim Burton directed “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” which featured Johnny Depp in the titular role. It is unclear if Johnny Depp will reprise said role.

After courting the Roald Dahl estate for the majority of the year, Warner Bros.’ acquisition of the “Willy Wonka” intellectual property rights happened earlier this fall. If all goes well for the film, it could spell the start of a new film franchise. — BM, GMA News

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