By Margaret Rose Tipton Siytangco

Before there was a chocolate factory, there was a young man with a hatful of dreams and this is his tale.

The new film, Wonka, by director Paul King and starring a boyishly charming Timothée Chalamet, takes place in Wonka’s youth as he struggles to establish himself as the premier purveyor of cheerful chocolates, classic candies, and all-around terrific treats.

The original Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory starring Gene Wilder was and still is a beloved cult classic. After a rough start, the film garnered a strong following and was even selected for preservation and inducted into the National Film Board of the US in 2014.

With such a pedigree, the question on many people’s minds was, “Can another movie about Willy Wonka stand up or match the original?” That is a valid concern, for sure. And the answer is a resounding, “Yes!”

Pure imagination is what Wonka is about. Every moment of the film is unadulterated, whimsy, silly, and magical. Timothée Chalamet as Willy Wonka deserves thunderous applause as he effortlessly adopts the wide-eyed wonder, optimism, and love of life we’ve come to expect of the character. Chalamet’s charm has, in fact, probably made him more beloved than the original Wonka. And that is saying a lot!

Wonka will take you in, spin you around, and tickle you. Scratch that. Reverse it.

The music is simple but endearing. There is a purity about it, forgoing too many frills. It is the kind that lasts and is instantly classic. Every song makes your heart smile. And when those familiar notes you know you’re waiting for finally sound, you are filled with grateful nostalgia as this movie gives an old favorite the respect it deserves.

This will assuredly become a holiday family classic. There’s nothing else you can ask for. It has wonder, music, and delight in every sweet minute. It’s a perfect recipe for the most delectable movie.

Familiar faces cross the screen, to our delight. Calah Lane (The Day Shall Come) has the heart and enthusiasm to match Willy. Hugh Grant (Bridget Jones's Diary/Paddington 2) does a remarkable Oompa Loompa, making the theater giggle. Olivia Coleman, best known for playing the Queen herself in The Crown, also makes an appearance as an opportunistic innkeeper.

And Rowan Atkinson’s face (Mr. Bean) is just the cherry on top of all the silliness. It’s just right that he was there, with his unique brand of understated clumsiness.

The sights are also something to behold, from the streets of the Gallery Gourmet to Willie’s magical concoctions beautifully come to life. Don’t miss it and do your best to catch it on the biggest screen possible— Imax.

You will enter Wonka expecting a sweet treat. You will leave with your heart full and your mind satisfied. It is a family movie to watch this holiday. Oh, and… make sure you have chocolates when you do. Our six-year-old left the theater singing the movie's songs, which screams success! Wonka is and will be loved through the ages. Mark my words on it.