The Intrigue and Critique of 'Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory'
What Makes Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory so Weird?
“So weird” was precisely the point behind the unique and fantastical world of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. This 1971 classic, directed by Mel Stuart, was a different animal back in its time, shaped by the limitations of the era while embodying the audacity and whimsy of its creator, Willy Wonka.
Wonka, the free spirit behind the enterprise, operated outside the constraints of a board of directors. This allowed him to build his factory as he saw fit, filled with innovative and unconventional products. Imagine if the Everlasting Gobstoppers faced an initial review by a board of directors:
“Gentlemen! Behold! The latest confectionary marvel, the Everlasting Gobstopper! It’s a jawbreaker for children with very little pocket money. You can suck on it forever and it’ll never get any smaller! I’ve had Oompa-Loompas sucking on these for a full year and they’re just as big as...”
Technology, Acting, and Money
When The Chocolate Factory first graced theaters in 1971, the context was different. Acting techniques, cultural norms, and financial resources were considerably less advanced than they are today. The movie’s simplicity and basic elements are not necessarily faults but rather a byproduct of the era and available technology. While the 2005 remake undoubtedly had more resources and modern filmmaking techniques, it’s easy to appreciate the original's raw charm and creativity.
From a personal standpoint, the chocolate river in the factory doesn’t even resemble chocolate; it is a dirty, unsettling sight. Similarly, some of the music, particularly the Oompa Loompa song, can be a source of discomfort. The acting is sometimes too simplistic, making it cringe-worthy at times. On the other hand, the look of the Oompa Loompa characters and the glass elevator are highlights that stand the test of time.
OSHA Violations and Ethical Concerns
асс Bill gives some fascinating points that need to be addressed. Willy Wonka's factory operates in a regulatory environment that did not exist during the production of the 1971 film. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), a federal agency in the United States, was indeed passed in 1970. This raises questions about how other nations allowed the sale of Wonka products without ever inspecting the factory.
Further, Wonka's willingness to employ Oompa-Loompas, underage workers from a faraway land, raises ethical concerns about child labor and exploitation. Especially given the publicity after the families shared their knowledge about the Oompa-Loompas, a labor investigation is undoubtedly necessary. The public outcry could lead to stricter scrutiny and potential legal challenges for Wonka's practices.
Mr. Wilkinson's Motives
The character of Mr. Wilkinson, the dentist, has raised questions about his conduct. The fact that he approaches the children disturbingly close after finding the Golden Ticket makes one wonder if he was aware of the tickets' locations from the start. This adds a layer of intrigue to the narrative and invites speculation about his motives.
Global Language and Setting
The improbability of all five families speaking high-quality English when the tickets were sold worldwide also piques curiosity. It’s an interesting aspect of the story, indicating a possible plot element that drives the narrative and emphasizes the global appeal of the tickets.
The Chocolate Castle in the Desert
The final destination of the sugar sculpture racer, a massive chocolate castle in the desert, adds another layer of mystery. Prince Ponderwell's request for a desert-chateau is a whimsical touch, yet it seems out of place given the other elements of the story. This enigma adds to the overall mystique and leaves room for endless discussions and interpretations.
In conclusion, the 1971 adaptation of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory offers a unique glimpse into a different era of filmmaking. Each component, from the humor to the critics, contributes to the charm and lasting appeal of the story. While it may not stand up to the technological advancements and modern sensibilities of today, it remains a timeless classic full of imagination and intrigue.