As a movie enthusiast with a soft spot for timeless tales and a knack for finding hidden gems, I can wholeheartedly recommend these two films to anyone who has just watched “Wonka“.
In recent times, it seems as if every popular pop culture figure is getting a prequel story, and Willy Wonka, the eccentric chocolate maker from Roald Dahl’s 1964 novel “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” is no exception to this trend. In late 2023, Paul King, a director who plays a significant role in this narrative, directed a film titled “Wonka” that delves into Willy Wonka’s past. The movie stars Timothée Chalamet as the younger version of the iconic character. By the end of its run, “Wonka” and its talented cast, which includes Olivia Colman, Sally Hawkins, Keegan-Michael Key, and Hugh Grant, won over both audiences and critics with their appeal, whimsy, and humor.
If you adore “Wonka” and seek another movie with a similar charm, we’ve got some suggestions for you! Notably, all the films below share the same family-friendly vibe as “Wonka,” making them suitable for viewers of all ages. Delve into various adaptations of beloved characters by Stephen King, revisit the original “Wonka” movie, or discover an overlooked gem directed by Martin Scorsese. Here are seven movies that Willy Wonka enthusiasts should definitely watch:
Paddington (2014)
In 2014, when Paul King released his first “Paddington” film, it was uncertain how it would fare as there had been numerous movies featuring a small CGI animal interacting with humans, most of which were not highly regarded. However, King’s approach in both “Paddington” films stands out for one key reason: he never underestimated his audience. Recognizing that “Paddington” was meant to be enjoyed by both adults and children, he crafted a heartwarming, emotional, and incredibly imaginative film based on the literary bear who travels from Darkest Peru to London and is named after the train station where he’s discovered.
In the first “Paddington” film, voiced by Ben Whishaw, Paddington proves to be a genuine joy. Upon meeting the Brown family – head of household Henry (Hugh Bonneville), his wife Mary (Sally Hawkins), and their children Judy (Madeleine Harris) and Jonathan (Samuel Joslin) – they choose to welcome him into their home, despite Henry’s initial reservations. As Paddington adjusts to his new life, he finds himself in various predicaments that annoy Henry but bring smiles to Mary, Judy, Jonathan, and the household’s housekeeper Mrs. Bird (Julie Walters). However, when Paddington encounters genuine peril at the hands of the malevolent taxidermist Millicent Clyde (played by a delightfully over-the-top Nicole Kidman), the Browns join forces to rescue their beloved bear. Michael King’s enchanting spirit is evident throughout the movie, much like in “Wonka.” Fortunately, there are not one but two captivating “Paddington” films for you to enjoy if you are a fan of “Wonka.
Paddington 2 (2017)
If you enjoyed “Paddington,” you’ll find yourself thoroughly captivated by “Paddington 2” as it surpasses the brilliance of the original film. In this second installment, once again penned and directed by Paul King, Paddington continues to live harmoniously with the Brown family. However, he embarks on a quest to find an ideal gift for his only surviving relative in Darkest Peru – Aunt Lucy, voiced by Imelda Staunton. His choice? A pop-up book of London! To fund this purchase, Paddington takes on various odd jobs and saves up. Tragically, the book is snatched from an antique shop before he can make his purchase, and he’s falsely accused of the theft. Of course, our beloved bear didn’t commit the crime. The culprit turns out to be Phoenix Buchanan (played by a jubilant Hugh Grant), a once-popular actor grappling with a dwindling career, who believes the book holds secrets to buried treasure in London.
Initially, it appears unusual when Paddington finds himself in prison within the storyline. However, this unexpected twist becomes more understandable as Paddington’s compassionate personality and determination win over his cellmates, including Knuckles McGinty, the prison chef (played by Brendan Gleeson), who grows fond of Paddington’s marmalade sandwich “recipe.” The movie “Paddington 2” manages to be both an insightful commentary on prison reform and a captivating film, featuring what some consider Grant’s finest performance throughout his career. Despite the fact that it eventually had its perfect score tarnished by one critic, “Paddington 2” remains a charming gem from beginning to end. If you’re interested, immerse yourself in a Paul King film marathon with “Wonka” and both Paddington films!
Matilda (1996)
If you were raised with a book in hand and find “Matilda” appealing, then this captivating, wittily dark, and inspiring film is definitely for you. Originally based on Roald Dahl’s novel of the same title and helmed by director Danny DeVito, who also stars as a significant character, “Matilda” narrates the tale of Matilda Wormwood, portrayed by Mara Wilson. Matilda has an unusual passion for reading and, coincidentally, possesses extraordinary psychokinetic abilities. Regrettably, she’s trapped in a household full of unyielding dullards who despise books and prefer watching television – such as her father Harry Wormwood (DeVito), his abusive spouse and Matilda’s mother Zinnia (Rhea Perlman), and older brother Michael (Brian Levinson).
As Matilda’s hidden talents manifest more prominently – such as when she causes their television to explode after Harry confiscates her book and makes her watch something uninteresting – she employs them to combat the cruel school principal Miss Trunchbull (played by Pam Ferris) to aid her somewhat stepdaughter, Miss Honey (Embeth Davidtz). Matilda’s powers and intelligence prove triumphant over both her oppressive parents and Miss Trunchbull. In the film’s conclusion, she is allowed to reside with Miss Honey, who supports and nurtures not only her academic pursuits but also her enigmatic abilities. The movie “Matilda” is a highly recommended watch for fans of “Wonka,” especially given its connection to a Dahl character; if you appreciated the musical elements of “Wonka,” you might also enjoy the 2022 film adaptation of “Matilda The Musical.
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory
If you haven’t seen Mel Stuart’s 1971 film “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” starring Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka, you might be missing out on an unusual and somewhat ominous adaptation of Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” In this movie, Wilder’s Wonka is delightfully sinister as he guides Golden Ticket winners through his chocolate factory. Some of these children encounter dangerous situations due to their misbehavior, and Wonka appears to take pleasure in it, with his Oompa-Loompas singing songs about each child’s demise. Additionally, the boat ride scene might give you chills as it seems to portray Wonka as a potentially dangerous individual.
Yes, Wilder plays Wonka as a seriously twisted man, but somehow, it totally works — and as the kids fall one by one and leave just Charlie Bucket (Peter Ostrum), who is pure of heart and thus deserving of the role as Wonka’s heir, Wilder softens his performance (after giving Charlie one last test, that is). Timothée Chalamet brings something special to Willy Wonka, but truthfully, nobody will ever play this character as well as Wilder, who passed away in 2016.
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
Paul King is known for creating charming and fanciful films using exceptional visual effects that center around beloved children’s book characters. However, in 2009, renowned admirer of whimsy Wes Anderson attempted to bring a character from Roald Dahl’s world to life. In his unique stop-motion adaptation of one of Dahl’s books, “Fantastic Mr. Fox” was brought to the screen with stars like George Clooney and Meryl Streep lending their voices to Mr. Fox and Mrs. Felicity Fox. The peaceful existence of this family within a tree is threatened by three relentless farmers determined to find the cunning foxes. To add more complications, Eric Chase Anderson as Kristofferson Silverfox, Felicity’s nephew, moves in with the family, driving Ash (Jason Schwartzman) up the wall.
Anderson is well-recognized for frequently collaborating with a group of actors who often work with the filmmaker-screenwriter. Notable members of his recurring cast, such as Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Willem Dafoe, Owen Wilson, and Adrien Brody, lend their voices in this production. The film is visually stunning due to its meticulously executed stop-motion animation, a technique Anderson would revisit in 2018 with another movie made in the same style, titled “Isle of Dogs.” Whether you’re a fan or not of Anderson’s distinct style, it’s worth watching this adaptation of a Dahl classic, even for those who are generally skeptical about Anderson’s work.
Mary Poppins Returns (2018)
If you’re seeking a modern take on a character from an old movie, consider watching “Mary Poppins Returns”. It was released in 2018 as a sequel to the original and features Emily Blunt in the role made famous by Julie Andrews. Blunt skillfully combines the stern yet nurturing qualities of Mary Poppins. In this film, Mary Poppins reappears when Jane and Michael Banks (played by Emily Mortimer and Ben Whishaw) are at risk of losing their family home due to the underhanded dealings of Fidelity Fiduciary Bank. Along with Bert, the lamplighter played by Lin Manuel Miranda, they join forces with Mary Poppins to prevent the bank from repossessing their London residence.
As a gamer, I found myself utterly captivated by the charm of “Mary Poppins Returns.” It might not reach the ethereal heights of the original starring Andrews, but Emily Blunt truly shines in her role. The supporting cast also delivers stellar performances that complement hers beautifully.
Hugo
When considering Martin Scorsese’s impressive portfolio, such as “Taxi Driver,” “The Wolf of Wall Street,” or his latest acclaimed work “Killers of the Flower Moon,” you may not instantly associate it with family-friendly content. However, among his diverse collection, there is one movie that is entirely suitable for all ages – the historical fantasy film “Hugo” directed by Scorsese in 2011.
3D-filmed movie titled “Hugo,” revolves around protagonist Hugo Cabret, a budding inventor living with his uncle at the bustling Gare Montparnasse train station in Paris following the demise of his father in a blaze. When his uncle Claude vanishes and it’s his responsibility to maintain the station’s clocks, he encounters toy store proprietor’s goddaughter Isabelle. Realizing she holds a crucial key to revive his mechanical creation, Hugo enlists her help. As they delve into the mystery together, they discover that the automaton was once owned by filmmaker Georges Méliès, who has been desperately seeking it since his work was ruined in a fire.
Similar to “Willy Wonka,” the movie “Hugo” presents a creative and youthful protagonist who carves his unique journey, much like a Scorsese film, yet suitable for young viewers. Notably, it was nominated for the Best Picture award at the 2012 Oscars – making it an excellent choice to watch following “Willy Wonka.
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2024-09-24 21:00