As fans of Mel Stuart's 1971 film "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory" can likely tell you, author Roald Dahl hated the film. His original 1964 novel, "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," was, he felt, not a whimsical, sentimental story, but a Dickensian odyssey into a surreal landscape. Additionally, Dahl hated the casting of Gene Wilder as Willy Wonka, preferring British actor Spike Milligan. Too much was changed from his original text. Why adapt a book to screen, Dahl felt, if you're going to alter everything?
Despite the author's objections, Stuart's film became deeply beloved among the children who saw it in the '70s and '80s, and many grew up holding the film -- which has plenty of Dahl-like bitterness and horror regardless -- very close to their hearts. "Willy Wonka" eventually became part of the ever-churning nostalgia machine, and decades after its release, aging Gen-Xers were suddenly able...
Despite the author's objections, Stuart's film became deeply beloved among the children who saw it in the '70s and '80s, and many grew up holding the film -- which has plenty of Dahl-like bitterness and horror regardless -- very close to their hearts. "Willy Wonka" eventually became part of the ever-churning nostalgia machine, and decades after its release, aging Gen-Xers were suddenly able...
- 1/28/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Gene Wilder Saw Tim Burton's Charlie And The Chocolate Factory As More Of An 'Insult' Than An Homage
Roald Dahl's beloved novel "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" has been re-imagined countless times over the years. The first film adaptation, titled "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory," was released in 1971 and starred Gene Wilder as the eponymous chocolatier. Decades later, director Tim Burton put his own spin on the children's tale with "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," starring Burton's long-time friend and collaborator Johnny Depp. The movie was a critical and financial hit, but not everyone was a fan. In fact, Wilder himself spoke out against the 2005 film.
Dahl's original story was a huge inspiration to Burton, but the director was let down by the '70s cinematic interpretation. "I didn't feel as daunted by the [first] movie," he told Blackfilm.com in 2005. Instead of using the 1971 film as a point of reference, Burton instead used Dahl's source material as a "blueprint" to guide his movie. "Our goal, except...
Dahl's original story was a huge inspiration to Burton, but the director was let down by the '70s cinematic interpretation. "I didn't feel as daunted by the [first] movie," he told Blackfilm.com in 2005. Instead of using the 1971 film as a point of reference, Burton instead used Dahl's source material as a "blueprint" to guide his movie. "Our goal, except...
- 11/15/2022
- by Shae Sennett
- Slash Film
On June 30, 2021, the beloved family film Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory celebrates its 50th anniversary. Peter Ostrum (“Charlie Bucket”), Paris Themmen (“Mike Teevee”), Julie Dawn Cole (“Veruca Salt”) and Michael Bollner (“Augustus Gloop”) recently sat down together to reflect on 50 years of the perennial family classic.
Originally released on June 30, 1971, directed by Mel Stuart and starring Gene Wilder as the legendary Candy Man Willy Wonka, this splendiferous movie brings to the screen the endlessly appetizing delights of Roald Dahl’s cherished book. Coated with flavorful tunes and production designs that are a visual treat for the eyes, this effervescent musical never fails to enchant young and old. On a whirlwind tour of Willy’s incredible, edible realm of chocolate waterfalls, elfish Oompa-Loompas and industrial-sized confections, a boy named Charlie (Peter Ostrum) will discover the sweetest secret of all: a generous, loving heart. And viewers will rediscover all the timeless...
Originally released on June 30, 1971, directed by Mel Stuart and starring Gene Wilder as the legendary Candy Man Willy Wonka, this splendiferous movie brings to the screen the endlessly appetizing delights of Roald Dahl’s cherished book. Coated with flavorful tunes and production designs that are a visual treat for the eyes, this effervescent musical never fails to enchant young and old. On a whirlwind tour of Willy’s incredible, edible realm of chocolate waterfalls, elfish Oompa-Loompas and industrial-sized confections, a boy named Charlie (Peter Ostrum) will discover the sweetest secret of all: a generous, loving heart. And viewers will rediscover all the timeless...
- 6/30/2021
- by Michelle Hannett
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Paris Themmen, the actor who played Mike Teavee in the Gene Wilder-led 1971 classic Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, says Timothée Chalamet is “a talented actor,” but that the 25-year-old star doesn’t “have to be as good” as Wilder for Warner Bros.’ planned prequel Wonka.
Themmen shared his thoughts during an interview with Yahoo Entertainment as part of a virtual reunion celebrating the film’s 50th anniversary. He appeared alongside Willy Wonka co-stars Peter Ostrum, Julia Dawn Cole and Michael Bollner, who played Charlie Bucket, Veruca Salt and Augustus Gloop, respectively.
“One nice thing for them is they don’t have ...
Themmen shared his thoughts during an interview with Yahoo Entertainment as part of a virtual reunion celebrating the film’s 50th anniversary. He appeared alongside Willy Wonka co-stars Peter Ostrum, Julia Dawn Cole and Michael Bollner, who played Charlie Bucket, Veruca Salt and Augustus Gloop, respectively.
“One nice thing for them is they don’t have ...
- 6/29/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Paris Themmen, the actor who played Mike Teavee in the Gene Wilder-led 1971 classic Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, says Timothée Chalamet is “a talented actor,” but that the 25-year-old star doesn’t “have to be as good” as Wilder for Warner Bros.’ planned prequel Wonka.
Themmen shared his thoughts during an interview with Yahoo Entertainment as part of a virtual reunion celebrating the film’s 50th anniversary. He appeared alongside Willy Wonka co-stars Peter Ostrum, Julia Dawn Cole and Michael Bollner, who played Charlie Bucket, Veruca Salt and Augustus Gloop, respectively.
“One nice thing for them is they don’t have ...
Themmen shared his thoughts during an interview with Yahoo Entertainment as part of a virtual reunion celebrating the film’s 50th anniversary. He appeared alongside Willy Wonka co-stars Peter Ostrum, Julia Dawn Cole and Michael Bollner, who played Charlie Bucket, Veruca Salt and Augustus Gloop, respectively.
“One nice thing for them is they don’t have ...
- 6/29/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Burbank, CA – Warner Bros. Home Entertainment announced today that the perennial family classic Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory will be released on Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack and Digital on June 29. Called a “genuine work of imagination” by Roger Ebert, the film stars Gene Wilder in one of his most famous roles.
Directed by Mel Stuart from a screenplay by Roald Dahl, Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory was produced by Stan Margulies and David L. Wolper. The film is an adaptation of Dahl’s 1964 novel “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory stars Gene Wilder as Wily Wonka, Jack Albertson as Grandpa Joe, Peter Ostrum as Charlie Bucket, Roy Kinnear as Mr. Salt, Julie Dawn Cole as Veruca Salt, Leonard Stone as Mr. Beauregarde, Denise Nickerson as Violet Beauregarde, Dodo Denney as Mrs. Teevee, and Paris Themmen as Mike Teevee.
Ultra HD* showcases 4K resolution...
Directed by Mel Stuart from a screenplay by Roald Dahl, Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory was produced by Stan Margulies and David L. Wolper. The film is an adaptation of Dahl’s 1964 novel “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory stars Gene Wilder as Wily Wonka, Jack Albertson as Grandpa Joe, Peter Ostrum as Charlie Bucket, Roy Kinnear as Mr. Salt, Julie Dawn Cole as Veruca Salt, Leonard Stone as Mr. Beauregarde, Denise Nickerson as Violet Beauregarde, Dodo Denney as Mrs. Teevee, and Paris Themmen as Mike Teevee.
Ultra HD* showcases 4K resolution...
- 5/14/2021
- by ComicMix Staff
- Comicmix.com
Actress Denise Nickerson, best known for playing the gum-chewing Violet Beauregarde in 1971’s Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, has died. She was 62.
Nickerson’s family announced her death in a Facebook post late Wednesday night. “She’s gone,” Nickerson’s son Josh and his wife Jasmine said.
On Wednesday morning, Nickerson’s family shared that the actress had been taken off of life support. “They just took off all the equipment. None of it was helping, but making her only more uncomfortable. We’re telling her it’s okay to let go,” the couple wrote on the page they created...
Nickerson’s family announced her death in a Facebook post late Wednesday night. “She’s gone,” Nickerson’s son Josh and his wife Jasmine said.
On Wednesday morning, Nickerson’s family shared that the actress had been taken off of life support. “They just took off all the equipment. None of it was helping, but making her only more uncomfortable. We’re telling her it’s okay to let go,” the couple wrote on the page they created...
- 7/11/2019
- by Helen Murphy
- PEOPLE.com
It’s not often that you get to see the appearance of someone that didn’t have a lot of acting credits despite being on one of the most iconic movies in history, but Paris Themmen, the guy that played Mike Teevee from Willy Wonka, was currently on Jeopardy!. The really odd thing about it though is that Themmen didn’t say a single word about his time spent on the movie and many people the recognized him are wondering why. When asked to list something interesting about himself Themmen instead said that he’d backpacked on six out of seven continents, which is
‘Willy Wonka’ Star Paris Themmen, Who Played Mike Teevee, Appears on ‘Jeopardy!’...
‘Willy Wonka’ Star Paris Themmen, Who Played Mike Teevee, Appears on ‘Jeopardy!’...
- 3/17/2018
- by Wake
- TVovermind.com
Willy Wonka child star Paris Themmen threw Twitter into a frenzy when he appeared on Jeopardy! this week — but it turns out, he was just following in his wife’s footsteps.
Themmen’s wife of four years, Nikki Grillos, had a two-day run as a champ on the game show in 2015, when she took home $32,802, according to a fan-created archive site.
Yeah, I lost Jeopardy, but Barry Bostwick used my cell phone tonight, so... #what
— Nikki Grillos (@NGrillos) October 31, 2015 Willy Wonka (inset: Nikki Grillos and Paris Themmen)" />
On Tuesday, Themmen — who played young TV and cowboy enthusiast Mike Teevee in...
Themmen’s wife of four years, Nikki Grillos, had a two-day run as a champ on the game show in 2015, when she took home $32,802, according to a fan-created archive site.
Yeah, I lost Jeopardy, but Barry Bostwick used my cell phone tonight, so... #what
— Nikki Grillos (@NGrillos) October 31, 2015 Willy Wonka (inset: Nikki Grillos and Paris Themmen)" />
On Tuesday, Themmen — who played young TV and cowboy enthusiast Mike Teevee in...
- 3/16/2018
- by Aurelie Corinthios
- PEOPLE.com
He tried to play it cool — calling himself an "entrepreneur" instead of a "former child actor" — but TV viewers still recognized Paris Themmen, one of the contestants on the March 13 episode of Jeopardy!. As many fans excitedly tweeted, Mike played the television-addicted Mike Teevee in the beloved 1971 film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. The 58-year-old didn't even mention his claim to fame when Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek asked him for a fun fact. Instead, he talked about his love for backpacking, saying he has trekked through six of seven continents. And fans were confounded, to say the least. "@ParisThemmen, why talk about backpacking?" asked one Twitter user. "Why wouldn't you mention that when you were 11, you got invited to a chocolate factory in Germany and got split up in a million pieces then shrunk down to the size of a chocolate bar. Total missed opportunity if you ask me.
- 3/15/2018
- by Dan Clarendon
- Closer Weekly
Paris Themmen has fulfilled his Willy Wonka character’s obsession with getting on television.
The former actor, 58, who played young TV and cowboy-enthusiast Mike Teevee in the classic 1971 film, kept his Hollywood past a secret when he appeared on Tuesday’s episode of Jeopardy!
During the portion of the show when host Alex Trebek asks contestants about their personal lives, Themmen was introduced as an “entrepreneur” and “avid backpacker.” While he revealed that he’s traveled to 61 countries, he did not mention his role in the movie.
Jeopardy!" /> Willy Wonka." />
But it didn’t take long for sharp-eyed viewers to...
The former actor, 58, who played young TV and cowboy-enthusiast Mike Teevee in the classic 1971 film, kept his Hollywood past a secret when he appeared on Tuesday’s episode of Jeopardy!
During the portion of the show when host Alex Trebek asks contestants about their personal lives, Themmen was introduced as an “entrepreneur” and “avid backpacker.” While he revealed that he’s traveled to 61 countries, he did not mention his role in the movie.
Jeopardy!" /> Willy Wonka." />
But it didn’t take long for sharp-eyed viewers to...
- 3/14/2018
- by Mike Miller
- PEOPLE.com
Look who got his golden ticket again This weekend, Paris Themmen, the original Mike Teavee from the classic 1971 Warner Bros. film, visited the hit Broadway musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
- 10/10/2017
- by BWW News Desk
- BroadwayWorld.com
Once again, Wamg attended the 2017 Turner Classic Movie Film Festival in Hollywood, and as always, it did not disappoint!
Ahhh…so many movies, so little time to cover everything, but here are some highlights of my favorite movies of this year’s festival.
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971)
Shown poolside at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, this classic was perfect for opening night. Brightly colored inflatable balls and lights floated in the pool like some of Wonka’s best candies as guests enjoyed snacks and cocktails on a beautiful spring evening. In attendance for this special screening were some of the cast members of the original movie. Miss Veruca Salt herself, Julie Dawn Cole; Mike Teevee, also known as Paris Themmen; and one of the original Oompaloompas, Rusty Goffe.
Along with host Illeana Douglas, they recounted some great memories of being on the set of the film in Germany more than 45 years ago.
Ahhh…so many movies, so little time to cover everything, but here are some highlights of my favorite movies of this year’s festival.
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971)
Shown poolside at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, this classic was perfect for opening night. Brightly colored inflatable balls and lights floated in the pool like some of Wonka’s best candies as guests enjoyed snacks and cocktails on a beautiful spring evening. In attendance for this special screening were some of the cast members of the original movie. Miss Veruca Salt herself, Julie Dawn Cole; Mike Teevee, also known as Paris Themmen; and one of the original Oompaloompas, Rusty Goffe.
Along with host Illeana Douglas, they recounted some great memories of being on the set of the film in Germany more than 45 years ago.
- 4/11/2017
- by Melissa Thompson
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Julie Dawn Cole, the child actor who so perfectly embodied the spoiled, vitriolic Veruca Salt in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory that a '90s alternative rock band named themselves after her, has weighed in on the death of her former co-star Gene Wilder on Twitter with a few simple, heartfelt words: Such very sad news. Words not enough. Treasured memories ???? — Julie Dawn Cole (@realverucasalt) August 29, 2016 While none of the other Wonka kids have yet spoken out on Wilder's death, we'll keep you updated if and when more of them pay tribute. Cole, for the record, has continued to act since starring in the 1971 classic and even paid homage to her most famous role in a show at the 2010 Edinburgh Fringe festival entitled Willy Wonka Revisited: The Veruca Salt Sessions. Two years ago she reunited with Wonka co-stars Paris Themmen (Mike TeeVee), Denise Nickerson (Violet Beauregarde), Michael Bollner (Augustus Gloop...
- 8/29/2016
- by Chris Eggertsen
- Hitfix
American treasure and crown jewel in Gene Wilder's spectacular oeuvre Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory turns 45 this week. To celebrate, not only have we justly singled out the crime that was Gene Wilder getting passed over for an Oscar, but we're also giving fans an anniversary-based roundup of obscure facts and trivial bits about everyone's favorite vaguely sinister candy factory. 1. Wilder only accepted the role on one condition In a letter to director Mel Stuart, Wilder wrote that he'd read the script and would take the part on the condition that, "When I make my first entrance, I'd like...
- 6/30/2016
- by Alex Heigl, @alex_heigl
- PEOPLE.com
American treasure and crown jewel in Gene Wilder's spectacular oeuvre Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory turns 45 this week. To celebrate, not only have we justly singled out the crime that was Gene Wilder getting passed over for an Oscar, but we're also giving fans an anniversary-based roundup of obscure facts and trivial bits about everyone's favorite vaguely sinister candy factory. 1. Wilder only accepted the role on one condition In a letter to director Mel Stuart, Wilder wrote that he'd read the script and would take the part on the condition that, "When I make my first entrance, I'd like...
- 6/30/2016
- by Alex Heigl, @alex_heigl
- PEOPLE.com
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory cast has reunited for the classic film’s 44th anniversary. Willy Wonka Reunion All of the child stars in Willy Wonka – Peter Ostrum (Charlie Bucket), Julie Dawn Cole (Veruca Salt), Denise Nickerson (Violet Beauregarde), Paris Themmen (Mike Teevee) and Michael Bollner (Augustus Gloop) sat down for an interview on NBC’s […]
The post ‘Willy Wonka’ Cast Reunite For Film’s 44th Anniversary appeared first on uInterview.
The post ‘Willy Wonka’ Cast Reunite For Film’s 44th Anniversary appeared first on uInterview.
- 11/12/2015
- by Chelsea Regan
- Uinterview
It’s not exactly a milestone celebration, but this year marks 44 years since the release of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, the classic musical adaptation of Roald Dahl‘s classic book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. To celebrate the occasion, the five golden ticket winners (Peter Ostrum, Paris Themmen, Julie Dawn Cole, Michael Bolner and Denise […]
The post Votd: ‘Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory’ Kids Reunite for 44th Anniversary appeared first on /Film.
The post Votd: ‘Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory’ Kids Reunite for 44th Anniversary appeared first on /Film.
- 11/12/2015
- by Ethan Anderton
- Slash Film
Forty-four years after Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory's theatrical premiere, six original cast members – five golden ticket winners, one Oompa Loompa – reunited for an interview with Today, reminiscing about their life-changing roles. "We think of ourselves as a family," says Paris Themmen, who played the hot-headed, cowboy-obsessed Mike Teavee. "Maybe a bit of a dysfunctional family. But a family, really."
Themmen, Julie Dawn Cole (bratty Veruca Salt), Michael Bollner (gluttonous Augustus Gloop), Denise Nickerson (gum-chewing Violet Beauregarde), Peter Ostrum (wide-eyed protagonist Charlie Bucket) and Rusty Goffe (the head Oompa...
Themmen, Julie Dawn Cole (bratty Veruca Salt), Michael Bollner (gluttonous Augustus Gloop), Denise Nickerson (gum-chewing Violet Beauregarde), Peter Ostrum (wide-eyed protagonist Charlie Bucket) and Rusty Goffe (the head Oompa...
- 11/11/2015
- Rollingstone.com
It's been 44 years since Willy Wonka first hit theaters in 1971, and although we as viewers feel lucky to have experienced the film, it's the cast of kids—some of them grandparents now!—from the musical adaptation of Roald Dahl's classic novel who really feel like they've been blessed. Sitting down with the Today show on Wednesday, Peter Ostrum (Charlie Buckets), Paris Themmen (Mike Teavee), Julie Dawn Cole (Veruca Salt), Rusty Goffe, Denise Nickerson (Violet Beauregarde) and Michael Bollner (Augustus Gloop) couldn't help but gush about being part of the film and how they're all still connected by it. "We think of ourselves as a family, maybe a bit of a dysfunctional family, but...
- 11/11/2015
- E! Online
Whether you’re into Doctor Who and Star Wars or The Wire and Sherlock, there’s a great line-up of special guests coming to the NEC on 22-23 March for McM Birmingham Comic Con and Memorabilia. Here are just a few of them!
British actor, writer and director Phil Davis has appeared in a host of top TV shows including Whitechapel; Sherlock, Being Human, Merlin and Doctor Who, while his movie credits include Alien 3, Quadrophenia, Notes On A Scandal, Secrets & Lies and Vera Drake, for which he was BAFTA-nominated. Paul McGann – Famous for playing the Eighth Doctor in the 1996 Doctor Who television film – a role he reprised in 72 audio dramas and the 2013 mini-episode ‘The Night of the Doctor’ – and for starring alongside Richard E. Grant in much-loved 1987 black comedy Withnail And I. Clarke Peters – Best known as detective Lester Freamon in acclaimed crime drama The Wire, as well as...
British actor, writer and director Phil Davis has appeared in a host of top TV shows including Whitechapel; Sherlock, Being Human, Merlin and Doctor Who, while his movie credits include Alien 3, Quadrophenia, Notes On A Scandal, Secrets & Lies and Vera Drake, for which he was BAFTA-nominated. Paul McGann – Famous for playing the Eighth Doctor in the 1996 Doctor Who television film – a role he reprised in 72 audio dramas and the 2013 mini-episode ‘The Night of the Doctor’ – and for starring alongside Richard E. Grant in much-loved 1987 black comedy Withnail And I. Clarke Peters – Best known as detective Lester Freamon in acclaimed crime drama The Wire, as well as...
- 3/11/2014
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
Gene Wilder doesn't think he's funny -- at least not in real life.
"[People] say, 'What a comic, what a funny guy,' and I'm not -- I am really not -- except in a comedy film," said the actor, who made a rare public appearance Thursday night (June 13) at the 92Y in New York City. "I also make my wife laugh once or twice in the house, but nothing special."
It's a bit odd to hear Wilder, known for playing comedic roles in films, including "Blazing Saddles," "The Producers," and "Young Frankenstein," to say something like this. Then again, Wilder always was a dramatic actor at heart, studying at renown institutions the Old Vic, in England, and Lee Strasberg's Actors Studio, in New York, before earning acclaim in his now classic comedies.
Last night, Wilder spoke about his career in and outside of show business, with Turner Classic Movies host Robert Osbourne.
"[People] say, 'What a comic, what a funny guy,' and I'm not -- I am really not -- except in a comedy film," said the actor, who made a rare public appearance Thursday night (June 13) at the 92Y in New York City. "I also make my wife laugh once or twice in the house, but nothing special."
It's a bit odd to hear Wilder, known for playing comedic roles in films, including "Blazing Saddles," "The Producers," and "Young Frankenstein," to say something like this. Then again, Wilder always was a dramatic actor at heart, studying at renown institutions the Old Vic, in England, and Lee Strasberg's Actors Studio, in New York, before earning acclaim in his now classic comedies.
Last night, Wilder spoke about his career in and outside of show business, with Turner Classic Movies host Robert Osbourne.
- 6/14/2013
- by Alex Suskind
- Moviefone
Chicago – One of the most unique happenings in Chicago every year is “The Hollywood Show.” This annual event presents celebrities from TV and film, both from the nostalgic past and the current scene. In September of 2012, the show included Loni Anderson (“Wkrp in Cincinnati”), Oscar Winner Martin Landau and the reunited cast of “Lost in Space,” all meeting fans and signing autographs.
HollywoodChicago.com covered the event, and photographer Joe Arce put the show’s participants in front of the lens. “The Hollywood Show” will be back in Chicago in September, 2013. Click “Next” and “Previous” to scan through the slideshow or jump directly to individual photos with the captioned links below. All images © Joe Arce of Starstruck Foto for HollywoodChicago.com.
HOLSHOW1: Loni Anderson of ‘Wkrp in Cincinnati.’ HOLSHOW2: Another view of Loni Anderson. HOLSHOW3: Oscar winner Martin Landau of ‘Ed Wood’ and ‘The Majestic.’ HOLSHOW4:...
HollywoodChicago.com covered the event, and photographer Joe Arce put the show’s participants in front of the lens. “The Hollywood Show” will be back in Chicago in September, 2013. Click “Next” and “Previous” to scan through the slideshow or jump directly to individual photos with the captioned links below. All images © Joe Arce of Starstruck Foto for HollywoodChicago.com.
HOLSHOW1: Loni Anderson of ‘Wkrp in Cincinnati.’ HOLSHOW2: Another view of Loni Anderson. HOLSHOW3: Oscar winner Martin Landau of ‘Ed Wood’ and ‘The Majestic.’ HOLSHOW4:...
- 1/19/2013
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Chicago – One of the great children’s films is “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory,” released in 1971. As the movie celebrates its 40th Anniversary with a lavish new Blu-ray package, the main child star of film, Peter Ostrum (Charlie Bucket), made an appearance at the 2011 Chicago Wizard World Comic Con.
Peter Ostrum as Charlie Bucket was the focus character in the film, finding the “Golden Ticket” that led him through the magical chocolate factory of Willy Wonka (Gene Wilder). He was 13 years old during the filming, and famously never acted again. He appeared at the Chicago Comic Con with fellow cast members Michael Bollner (Augustus Gloop), Denise Nickerson (Violet), Julie Dawn Cole (Veruca Salt) and Paris Themmen (Mike Teevee).
Peter Ostrum as Charlie Bucket in ‘Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory’
Photo Credit: Warner Home Video
HollywoodChicago.com was there, and got a quick interview with the now grown-up Charlie Bucket. Ostrum...
Peter Ostrum as Charlie Bucket was the focus character in the film, finding the “Golden Ticket” that led him through the magical chocolate factory of Willy Wonka (Gene Wilder). He was 13 years old during the filming, and famously never acted again. He appeared at the Chicago Comic Con with fellow cast members Michael Bollner (Augustus Gloop), Denise Nickerson (Violet), Julie Dawn Cole (Veruca Salt) and Paris Themmen (Mike Teevee).
Peter Ostrum as Charlie Bucket in ‘Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory’
Photo Credit: Warner Home Video
HollywoodChicago.com was there, and got a quick interview with the now grown-up Charlie Bucket. Ostrum...
- 12/26/2011
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Chicago – The holidays are a perfect time to remember some of 2011’s great entertainment events, and one of them was the Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, which took place August 11th-14th. Celebrities such as Anthony Michael Hall, Lou Gossett Jr., LeVar Burton, Peter Tork and Bruce Campbell were there.
HollywoodChicago.com photographer Joe Arce turned his lens to the event, and captured the following slide show. Click “Next” and “Previous” to scan through the slideshow or jump directly to individual photos with the captioned links below. All images © Joe Arce of Starstruck Foto for HollywoodChicago.com.
Comicon1: Anthony Michael Hall, star of ‘The Breakfast Club’ and ‘Sixteen Candles’ Comicon2: Mimi Rogers of ‘The Rapture’ and ‘World Poker Tour’ Comicon3: Oscar Winner Lou Gossett Jr. of ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’ Comicon4: Vivica A. Fox of ‘Kill Bill’ and ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Comicon5: Hey,...
HollywoodChicago.com photographer Joe Arce turned his lens to the event, and captured the following slide show. Click “Next” and “Previous” to scan through the slideshow or jump directly to individual photos with the captioned links below. All images © Joe Arce of Starstruck Foto for HollywoodChicago.com.
Comicon1: Anthony Michael Hall, star of ‘The Breakfast Club’ and ‘Sixteen Candles’ Comicon2: Mimi Rogers of ‘The Rapture’ and ‘World Poker Tour’ Comicon3: Oscar Winner Lou Gossett Jr. of ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’ Comicon4: Vivica A. Fox of ‘Kill Bill’ and ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Comicon5: Hey,...
- 12/26/2011
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Normal 0 false false false En-us X-none X-none By David Savage
If someone had informed this obsessive fan of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, 40 years ago, that I could hold a real Wonka Golden Ticket in my hands, watch behind-the-scenes footage and read a book on the making of my favorite film, examine script correspondence, listen to cast commentaries and dive into all sort of Wonka memorabilia in one big box, I probably would not have come up for air for weeks. In fact my reaction would probably have been a lot like Charlie’s when he discovers the last Golden Ticket.
Normal 0 false false false En-us X-none X-none
Fans of Willy Wonka – rejoice! Has Warner Bros. Home Video got a golden treat in store for you, just in time for the holidays. The 40th Anniversary Ultimate Collector’s Edition has just been released in one, big, heavy purple box, the...
If someone had informed this obsessive fan of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, 40 years ago, that I could hold a real Wonka Golden Ticket in my hands, watch behind-the-scenes footage and read a book on the making of my favorite film, examine script correspondence, listen to cast commentaries and dive into all sort of Wonka memorabilia in one big box, I probably would not have come up for air for weeks. In fact my reaction would probably have been a lot like Charlie’s when he discovers the last Golden Ticket.
Normal 0 false false false En-us X-none X-none
Fans of Willy Wonka – rejoice! Has Warner Bros. Home Video got a golden treat in store for you, just in time for the holidays. The 40th Anniversary Ultimate Collector’s Edition has just been released in one, big, heavy purple box, the...
- 10/20/2011
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
While it is considered a classic today, "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" was not a hit upon its 1971 release and was even criticized by some people who thought it was mean to children.
But in directing the adaption of the Roald Dahl book "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," director Mel Stuart crafted a tale for adults, not kids. That is probably a big reason why it has endured and influenced everyone from "The Simpsons" to Marilyn Manson, on top of the brilliant performance from Gene Wilder as the eccentric yet calculating candy maker. And let's face it, kids love it too. They get it.
The imaginative story about five children who win a tour of Willy Wonka's top secret confectionary plant -- and the chaos they create with subsequent consequences they did not foresee -- is filled with all sorts of great characters, from Wonka to the irrepressibly bratty...
But in directing the adaption of the Roald Dahl book "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," director Mel Stuart crafted a tale for adults, not kids. That is probably a big reason why it has endured and influenced everyone from "The Simpsons" to Marilyn Manson, on top of the brilliant performance from Gene Wilder as the eccentric yet calculating candy maker. And let's face it, kids love it too. They get it.
The imaginative story about five children who win a tour of Willy Wonka's top secret confectionary plant -- and the chaos they create with subsequent consequences they did not foresee -- is filled with all sorts of great characters, from Wonka to the irrepressibly bratty...
- 10/18/2011
- by Bryan Reesman
- NextMovie
The cast of the 1971 "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" movie appeared on the "Today Show" to celebrate the film's 40-year anniversary and to talk about their experiences being on the set. Check out the video below. In attendance were Peter Ostrum (Charlie Bucket, now a veterinarian), Julie Dawn Cole (Veruca Salt, now acting/fitness instructor), Paris Themmen (Mike Teevee, now financial consultant), Denise Nickerson (Violet Beauregarde, now an accountant), Michael Bollner (Augustus Gloop, now a tax accountant), and Diana Sowle (Mrs. Bucket). Gene Wilder (Willy Wonka), Rusty Goffe (Oompa Loompa) and Mel Stuart (director) couldn't make it to the show. Jack Albertson, who played Grandpa Joe, passed away in 1981. Video:...
- 5/18/2011
- WorstPreviews.com
Forty years after finding their golden tickets, the lucky kids who first met in Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory have reunited.
No word on whether the snozzberries still taste like snozzberries, but there's good news: no giant purple floating girls this time.
Nearly all of the surviving cast of the 1971 film, based on Roald Dahl's beloved novel, was brought back together by the "Today Show" on Tuesday, all grown adults but no less fond of their magical adventure.
"I have very fond memories of making the film, working with Jack Albertson and Gene Wilder, they were both super people to work with," said Peter Ostrum, who played lucky winner Charlie. He's now a veterinarian in upstate New York.
There was even a confession of guilt: Julie Dawn Cole, who played Veruca Salt, admitted that she snuck down early to see the magical set, which was supposed to be off limits...
No word on whether the snozzberries still taste like snozzberries, but there's good news: no giant purple floating girls this time.
Nearly all of the surviving cast of the 1971 film, based on Roald Dahl's beloved novel, was brought back together by the "Today Show" on Tuesday, all grown adults but no less fond of their magical adventure.
"I have very fond memories of making the film, working with Jack Albertson and Gene Wilder, they were both super people to work with," said Peter Ostrum, who played lucky winner Charlie. He's now a veterinarian in upstate New York.
There was even a confession of guilt: Julie Dawn Cole, who played Veruca Salt, admitted that she snuck down early to see the magical set, which was supposed to be off limits...
- 5/18/2011
- by Jordan Zakarin
- Huffington Post
The cast of 1971 kids' classic Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory reunited on U.S. TV on Tuesday to celebrate the movie's 40th anniversary.
The film, based on Roald Dahl's beloved story and starring Gene Wilder as reclusive chocolate factory owner Willy Wonka, is one of the most famous children's films of all time.
And 40 years on, the kids who played the lucky Golden Ticket winners got together on America's Today show to discuss their favourite moments shooting the movie.
Peter Ostrum, who played the film's lead Charlie Bucket, says, "I have very fond memories of making the film, working with (Grandpa Joe) Jack Albertson and Gene Wilder, they were both super people to work with."
Julie Dawn Cole, who played Veruca Salt, revealed she sneaked down to look at the candy-filled set during filming, while Denise Nickerson, who played Violet Beauregarde, laughed about how she was blue for 72 hours after shooting her famous blueberry scene.
Co-stars Paris Themmen and Michael Bollner also appeared on the show.
The film, based on Roald Dahl's beloved story and starring Gene Wilder as reclusive chocolate factory owner Willy Wonka, is one of the most famous children's films of all time.
And 40 years on, the kids who played the lucky Golden Ticket winners got together on America's Today show to discuss their favourite moments shooting the movie.
Peter Ostrum, who played the film's lead Charlie Bucket, says, "I have very fond memories of making the film, working with (Grandpa Joe) Jack Albertson and Gene Wilder, they were both super people to work with."
Julie Dawn Cole, who played Veruca Salt, revealed she sneaked down to look at the candy-filled set during filming, while Denise Nickerson, who played Violet Beauregarde, laughed about how she was blue for 72 hours after shooting her famous blueberry scene.
Co-stars Paris Themmen and Michael Bollner also appeared on the show.
- 5/18/2011
- WENN
It's probably best that Gene Wilder stayed at home.
When the "Today Show" reassembled six of the surviving cast members of the 1971 film, "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," producers apparently decided to rename it "Willie Wonka." At least that's the caption that ran across the bottom of the screen for most of the interview.
And the awkwardness doesn't stop there. Peter Ostrum (Charlie Bucket), Julie Dawn Cole (Veruca Salt), Denise Nickerson (Violet Beauregarde ), Paris Themmen (Mike TeeVee) and Diana Sowle (Mrs. Bucket) were all in attendance, dressed as normal adults do, but Michael Bollner (Augustus Gloop) brought a little something special.
Bollner showed up in an adult version of Gloop's stereotypically German costume to shed a little light on the nature of the chocolate pool where his character met his demise. "The chocolate wasn't real chocolate, it was just colored water," he says. "It was more or less a swimming...
When the "Today Show" reassembled six of the surviving cast members of the 1971 film, "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," producers apparently decided to rename it "Willie Wonka." At least that's the caption that ran across the bottom of the screen for most of the interview.
And the awkwardness doesn't stop there. Peter Ostrum (Charlie Bucket), Julie Dawn Cole (Veruca Salt), Denise Nickerson (Violet Beauregarde ), Paris Themmen (Mike TeeVee) and Diana Sowle (Mrs. Bucket) were all in attendance, dressed as normal adults do, but Michael Bollner (Augustus Gloop) brought a little something special.
Bollner showed up in an adult version of Gloop's stereotypically German costume to shed a little light on the nature of the chocolate pool where his character met his demise. "The chocolate wasn't real chocolate, it was just colored water," he says. "It was more or less a swimming...
- 5/18/2011
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Pop2it
Oh, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory... We all know the path of Wonka himself, Gene Wilder. He went on to be an iconic part of Mel Brooks' oeuvre, the a-mazing partner in crime to Richard Pryor, "Letterman" in The Electric Company, and now -- memoir writer and novelist. But what about the kids he tormented with sweets and all things full of nice sugar and spice? Charlie Bucket, Violet Beauregarde, Augustus Gloop, Veruca Salt, and Mike Teevee? CNN gives a rundown with a group picture from the film's 30th anniversary, which you can see below, and then head to Celebuzz for current shots.
From left to right (below):
Michael Bollner, or Augustus Gloop, is a tax attorney in Munich. Denise Nickerson, or Violet Beauregarde, went on to play a role in Dark Shadows before leaving the biz and becoming an accountant at an engineering plant. Paris Themmen,...
From left to right (below):
Michael Bollner, or Augustus Gloop, is a tax attorney in Munich. Denise Nickerson, or Violet Beauregarde, went on to play a role in Dark Shadows before leaving the biz and becoming an accountant at an engineering plant. Paris Themmen,...
- 1/14/2010
- by Monika Bartyzel
- Cinematical
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