Wonka (2023), directed by Paul King

This prequel to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory tells how a young Willie Wonka got his start as a chocolatier, battling a corrupt chocolate cartel. Can he rescue an orphan, overcome an evil laundress and prove that the greedy don’t always beat the needy, while sharing his magical gift for chocolate with the world? Well duh! The promos don’t make clear that the film is a musical, which allows Timothee Chalomet to demonstrate his versatility - who knew he could sing? Unfortunately the songs are largely forgettable. The special effects justify the budget, featuring some delightful flights of absurdity, especially those involving a giraffe named Abigail. The supporting cast includes many well-known British TV actors, as well as Olivia Colman having fun playing a villain and Hugh Grant as an Oompa Loompa. There are some nice nods to the original Gene Wilder film, while wisely ignoring the bizarre and creepy Johnny Depp remake. It is a nice school holiday movie, enjoyable but not breathtaking.