Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971)

Directed by
Mel Stuart

Adapted from Roald Dahl's famous children's tale, this feel-good family favourite tells the story of reclusive chocolate factory owner Willy (Gene Wilder). He announces that five lucky people will be given a tour of his mouth-watering business and shown all the secrets of his delicious confectionery, with one winning a lifetime supply of Wonka chocolate. Charlie Bucket is desperate to win.

Some admirers hail this as the most enchanting children's movie ever made, and Gene Wilder - best known for his hilarious performances in Blazing Saddles and The Producers - certainly gives his all in the role of Willy Wonka. How well does it compare with the 2005 version, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, starring Johnny Depp and directed by Tim Burton? The critics were divided.

Written by ,

Genre: Film

Production Year: 1971

Rating:
3/5 Stars

Classification: U Certificate

Production Country: USA

Filmed in Colour

Cast

Image for Gene WilderGene Wilder...Willy Wonka
Jack Albertson...Grandpa Joe
Peter Ostrum...Charlie Bucket
Image for Roy KinnearRoy Kinnear...Mr. Henry Salt
Julie Dawn Cole...Veruca Salt
Leonard Stone...Mr. Sam Beauregarde
Denise Nickerson...Violet Beauregarde
Nora Denney...Mrs. Teevee
Paris Themmen...Mike Teevee
Ursula Reit...Mrs. Gloop
Michael Bollner...Augustus Gloop
Diana Sowle...Mrs. Bucket
Aubrey Woods...Bill candy store owner
David Battley...Mr. Turkentine
Günter Meisner...Mr. Slugworth
Peter Capell...The Tinker
Werner Heyking...Mr. Jopeck newspaper stand owner
Peter Stuart...Winkelmann