Although the upcoming Willy Wonka prequel film remains years away from its theatrical release, eager fans can catch a glimpse at lead actor Timothée Chalamet on set recording a musical number for the film.Thanks to footage captured by Twitter user @_ARTSARTSARTS, not only can Chalamet be seen dressed as the iconic chocolatier, but a portion of a song made for the film can be heard playing in the background. Other than what appears to be an old London street beside a harbor, the video doesn't give too much more away. Judging by the sparse detail on the vehicle carrying Chalamet, the scene will likely be heavy with visual effects.
Following a young Willy Wonka played by Timothée Chalamet, Wonka will tell one of the chocolatier's earliest adventures, involving how he met the Oompa-Loompas. Joining Chalamet on the cast of Wonka will be comedians Keegan-Michael Key of Key & Peele and Mr. Bean himself, Rowan Atkinson, who were recently announced to star in the film as well. The actors are expected to perform alongside the likes of Olivia Colman, Matt Lucas, Paterson Joseph and Sally Hawkins. However, only Chalamet's character is currently known.
Wonka will mark the third time Willy Wonka has been cast on the big screen, with Chalamet's upcoming performance succeeding Gene Wilder's in the original 1971 film and Johnny Depp in the 2005 remake. Fans of the beloved character have expressed displeasure at the casting of Chalamet, taking to social media to denounce the actor after a single image of Chalamet's Willy Wonka was unveiled.
Netflix will have the chance to follow up on the character's onscreen adaption, as the streamer recently purchased the rights to the Roald Dahl Story Company. The author's works include classic children's books such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, James and the Giant Peach and Fantastic Mr. Fox, which Netflix intends to make a "unique universe" comprised of "animated and live-action films and TV, publishing, games, immersive experiences, live theatre, consumer products and more." In fact, directors Taika Waititi (Thor: Ragnarok) and Phil Johnston (Ralph Breaks the Internet) are currently collaborating on a series set in the world of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Although it is unknown at this time when Waititi and Johnston's project will premiere, fans can expect to catch Timothée Chalamet in Wonka from director Paul King and writer Simon Rich when the film arrives in theaters March 12, 2023.
Source: Twitter