As the highly-anticipated “Wonka” film hits theaters, actor Timothée Chalamet has offered insights into the prospects of a potential sequel, aptly titled “Wonka 2.” In this prequel to Roald Dahl’s beloved classic, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” Chalamet steps into the iconic shoes of Willy Wonka, portraying a younger version of the enigmatic chocolatier before his famous factory and the quest for the Golden Tickets.
In a recent conversation with ET Online, Chalamet shared his thoughts on the possibility of a sequel, acknowledging that it should happen “if there is a story to be told.” The actor further hinted that he believes such a story does exist, though he remained tight-lipped about the specifics, leaving fans eager to uncover the narrative potential of a “Wonka 2.” Here’s what Chalamet had to say:
“If there was a story to be told. And evidently there is.”
“Something twisted happens … I don’t know how we started like this and end there — I don’t know what the story is.”
The notion of a sequel to the “Wonka” prequel gained momentum after the film’s release, which initially faced mixed reactions from audiences. The movie’s trailers sparked debates, with some expressing skepticism about the need for a prequel to the iconic story, given the memorable portrayals of Willy Wonka by Gene Wilder and Johnny Depp, as well as the enduring charm of Dahl’s original tale. Many wondered if a prequel could do justice to the beloved character.
However, “Wonka” managed to surprise critics and fans alike with its impressive international box office performance even before its domestic release. The film achieved a remarkable $43.2 million during its opening weekend in overseas markets, setting high expectations for its reception in the United States. Early projections suggest that “Wonka” is poised to earn around $35 million during its domestic debut weekend.
Coupled with its box office success, “Wonka” has garnered positive reviews, earning the Certified Fresh status on Rotten Tomatoes, boasting an 84% critical score based on 170 reviews. This combination of financial success and critical acclaim has fueled calls for a sequel, raising hopes for “Wonka 2” to delve deeper into Willy’s chocolate-making dreams and the events leading up to “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”
Ultimately, the fate of “Wonka 2” rests in the hands of director Paul King and star Timothée Chalamet, who will need to envision a compelling story that justifies a sequel to this prequel. As fans eagerly await more delectable adventures in the world of Willy Wonka, only time will tell if a sequel is indeed in the cards.
