It appears that Timothee Chalamet is traveling from Arrakis, in the upcoming “Dune,” to the world of pure imagination for Warner Bros. in the prequel fantasy film, “Wonka.”
According to Deadline, Chalamet has been cast in the lead role in the upcoming “Wonka” film, which serves as a prequel to the Roald Dahl story, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” As you might suspect, Chalamet is set to play a younger version of the candymaker, Willy Wonka, as he goes on adventures that predate his time as a chocolate factory owner that loved to torture young children and enslave an entire race of people. (That’s what “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is about, right?)
Back in January, it was announced that “Wonka” had been given a 2023 release date and that Chalamet was at the top of WB’s shortlist of actors that would tackle the lead role. Chalamet is probably best known for his Oscar-nominated role in “Call Me By Your Name,” as well as standout performances in “Beautiful Boy” and “Little Women.” As mentioned, his first major franchise role is in the lead of Denis Villeneuve’s upcoming “Dune,” which arrives this October.
“Wonka” is set to be directed by Paul King, who is best known for his work as the writer-director of the ‘Paddington’ films. He’s co-writing “Wonka” alongside Simon Farnaby. Obviously, this is a major film for WB and there has been a revolving door filled with writers and filmmakers that have tried to get this feature into production. However, with King behind the camera and Chalamet in the lead role, it appears that “Wonka” is officially happening.
As of now, it appears that “Wonka” has an official release date of March 17, 2023. However, as with everything that is dated that far ahead, don’t be surprised if things eventually change.