Tim Burton may have recreated Charlie and the Chocolate Factory back in 2005, but now Warner Bros. has found a way to re-tell Willy Wonka's story in the form of a prequel. The film already has Paddington director Paul King to helm, and news has it that the movie is looking at some pretty big names to star in the film.
According to Collider, the shortlist for the lead for Willy Wonka are reportedly Ryan Gosling, Donald Glover, and Ezra Miller. Though I think Miller may have some great comedy chops, Gosling and Glover may have the upper hand if the movie is aiming to be a musical. I think Glover would be an entirely fresh take on Willy Wonka, but if this was going to be a direct prequel to the classic Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, I think Gosling would be the best choice.
After playing Lando Calrissian in Solo: A Star Wars Story, Glover is said to be "actively chasing" this Willy Wonka role as well, but Miller has some great connections with producer David Heyman thanks to the Fantastic Beasts franchise. If WB wanted to bank on nostalgia though, then Gosling could pass for a younger Gene Wilder.
Hopefully we get a casting decision sooner than later.
No release date has been set for the Willy Wonka prequel.
See Also: John Stamos Will Play Willy Wonka Onstage; Stranger Things Star To Play Charlie Bucket
Explore new topics and discover content that's right for you!
Fandoms