However, what if this was all a trick? What if he lured these children and their family members into his world so they would be stuck forever? What if this was no paradise at all but a type of hell? Hmm... Let’s discuss.
In the beginning, we see all the kids flocking to the “candy man” to buy their favorite treats. The children are already amazed and enthralled by Wonka and his creations.
When Charlie (Peter Ostrum) is outside the factory, the scary man says, “nobody every goes in. Nobody ever comes out.” Doesn’t this sound like a friendly, super place?
Also, to attract people, Wonka uses gold and chocolate. We already know that the kids are drawn to Wonka and his wonderful bars. The gold throws in some interest for adults, too.
This factory is a grand mystery to everyone. No one knows who is helping Wonka make the candy. No one knows how the chocolate is made. It is all amazing. I guess this could be heaven or hell. Something we don’t really know. I would argue the same about the factory. We see parts of the factory but not all. How do we know everything we see is all there is to see? What is missing?
The parents get suspicious early. Mr. Salt (Roy Kinnear) says, “I doubt we’ll ever get out of here alive.” He is already worried about the situation and the sanity of Wonka. But Wonka says, “You should never, never doubt what nobody is sure about.” So to him, ignorance is bliss. If you don’t know, just go along anyway.
Wonka even has a crazy “inventing room”! What about this doesn’t scream villain?! Slightly crazy, constantly inventing, has little minions... Seriously?
I know it is not the first thing they do in this building, but one of the key things they do is eat, especially in the chocolate room. What have we learned from Greek myth (Persephone) and Pan’s Labyrinth? DO NOT EAT IN SCARY PLACES! Especially after the boat ride, our characters should have learned that this is not an entirely safe place.
This is why Charlie goes to live in the factory. He is “invited” but really it is more like a trap. Yes, every child wants to live in a chocolate factory. But what adult agrees to this? Ones in poverty, that’s who. No more “cabbage water”! Chocolate, sweets, and diabetes for everyone!
I know this is a little out there. But the point of this blog is to challenge the way you think about these movies. Wonka may not be a 100% good guy... I hope you see a little bit of what I am talking about.
Some thoughts on how this movie is perfect and terrible for children. We’ve all thought it, but here it is said. Also, Wonka having “devilry in his heart" is discussed. Interesting...
I feel silly for never thinking about this movie in this way but the seven deadly sins are totally represented here! This site discusses which characters fit which sin.
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