Rating summary
| Movie |  | 5.0 |
| Video |  | 3.0 |
| Audio |  | 3.5 |
| Extras |  | 4.0 |
| Overall |  | 4.5 |
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory 4K Blu-ray Movie Review
A stunning 4K steelbook for one of the most creative films ever made.
Reviewed by Neil Lumbard September 18, 2021
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is one of the most beloved family films of all time. Based on the classic children's novel by Roald
Dahl, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is a ode to dreams and the unending power of imagination. Produced by Stan Margulies
(Roots, Separate But Equal) and David L. Wolper (L.A. Confidential, The Race for Space), the classic tale is one that
is worth re-visiting time and time again.
A contest is held to find a golden ticket in Willy Wonka candy: the ticket providing access to the esteemed chocolate factory. Charlie (Peter
Ostrum) finds one of five magical golden tickets from Willy Wonka (Gene Wilder) and is swept up in a magical adventure at the factory –
alongside Grandpa Joe (Jack Albertson). A world of imagination and magic awaits.
One of the best performances of Gene Wilder, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory showcases the actor's
impeccable talents. The role was perfect for Wilder and his charm and wit is easily apparent throughout the production. There was
something magical about Wilder: bringing his A-game to every scene in the film. Wilder's manic energy and charisma made the film the classic it still
is today.
The cinematography by Arthur Ibbetson (Where Eagles Dare, Nine Hours to Rama) is exquisite – showcasing a vibrant and
colorful tapestry throughout the film. The visuals are key to the filmmaking (and the hyper-stylized components provide a dream-like quality to
the film). The art direction by Harper Goff (20,000 Leagues Under the Sea) is similarly exquisite and the chocolate factory design has a
seemingly endless supply of creativity.
Pure imagination.
One of the most creative elements of the production is the exquisite costumes by Helen Colvig (Play Misty for Me, The Andromeda
Strain). The colorful and vibrant costume designed for Willy Wonka provides the film with a magical vibrancy that has helped Willy Wonka and
the Chocolate Factory be the memorable classic it is to this day.
The screenplay by Roald Dahl (The Witches, You Only Live Twice) adapts his own novel. Dahl did an exceptional job with the
screenplay and brings the story to life with vibrancy. The original book was full of creative ideas (as was the under-rated sequel novel, ) and the
adaptation does a solid job of bringing the tale
Directed by Mel Stuart (The White Lions, One is a Lonely Number), Willy Wonka and the Chocolate
Factory is a classic: the story, enchanting characters, and imaginative ideas bring audiences together for an unforgettable experience. No fan of
cinema should overlook this majestic gem. A unique masterpiece – every bit as rare as Wonka's golden ticket.
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory 4K Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality
Arriving on 4K UHD from Warner Bros., Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is presented in the theatrical aspect ratio of
1.85:1
widescreen. The release is presented with a native 4K scan of the film. For additional information regarding the picture-quality, please refer to the review by my colleague Randy
Miller III.
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory 4K Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality
The release is presented with a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround sound presentation. For additional information regarding the audio-quality,
please refer to the review by
my colleague Randy Miller III.
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory 4K Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras
The collectors steelbook features a stunning design. Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is presented with an iconic
image on the front of the steelbook design. The back art-work showcases Charlie as he opens his golden ticket. The inside-art showcases a Wonka
chocolate bar and candy: providing a nice confection of colors (enhancing the presentation of the release). The release has both 4K and Blu-ray discs.
On disc extras remain the same as the standard edition. For additional details on these supplemental features, please refer to the review by my colleague Randy
Miller III.
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory 4K Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is one of the most enchanting films of all time. The uniquely imaginative gem is a must-see classic
– please share it with family and friends. With an outstanding performance by Gene Wilder, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is a
pure delight. With this collectors edition steelbook, Wonka fans can own their own golden-ticket. Highly recommended.
