Directed by Mel Stuart
Written by Roald Dahl and David Seltzer
(based off book by Roald Dahl)
Starring Gene Wilder, Peter Ostrum, and Jack Albertson
‘A Musical Masterpiece’
The musical film genre consists of movies I do not particularly like. While other genres are more appealing, there is nothing like a well-made musical. Very few films in the past have been able to engage and entertain through songs.
1971’s “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” is a musical masterpiece that inventively adapts a wondrous book. It’s one of those rare movies that work without the need of effective direction or writing. Yes, the components are obviously present, but they neither enhance the film nor bring it down.
The real magic to this movie is the magnificent songs on display along with fantastic performances. In the end, the film leaves you breathless with nostalgia and joy.
Mel Stuart’s direction is great. Not only does the director manage to tell a wonderful story, but he also benefits from charming and enthusiastic characters in Roald Dahl’s script.
It is rare to see an author adapting his own novel to a movie, but Dahl makes full use of his opportunity. The characters in the screenplay are extremely well-developed and likable. It’s no surprise that along with David Seltzer, Dahl is the screenwriter. Apart from the songs in this film, the book’s message is effectively given through a fantastic script.
Having read the book several times, it did not seem right to make this a musical. Yet it works tremendously. The music in this film is stunning and glorious, holding up today after decades. From Gene Wilder’s beautifully sung “Pure Imagination” to Diana Lee’s emotional “Cheer Up, Charlie”, the music only enhances this movie, providing it with a distinct feel. In fact, if the music was not present, the film may not have been as good.
As the main character and protagonist, Peter Ostrum plays Charlie very well. He captures the character’s likable and kind personality perfectly.
Gene Wilder brilliantly portrays Willy Wonka. For such an important character, Wilder is at his best. Wonka’s charming and childish personality is impressively brought out, while his troubled side is also shown. A particular scene perfectly displays Willy Wonka’s troublesome life. It involves Charlie asking the factory owner for his prize. Enraged and irritated, Wonka says the child broke the rules and therefore does not get any prize. Wilder is a true revelation in this scene, flawlessly depicting his character’s rudeness.
All in all, “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” is a must-see musical for people of all ages. Its not always that you see a movie that has immense nostalgia and emotional quality. As for musicals, this remains one of the only ones that I truly endear.
5/5 stars
The Film Buff 
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