As the festive season unfolds, the box office is embracing the Christmas spirit with the release of “Wonka,” a whimsical origin story of the iconic candyman from “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” The musical, starring Timothée Chalamet as a young Willy Wonka, kicked off its North American run with an encouraging $3.5 million in preview grosses from 3,400 theaters.
While family films typically don’t boast massive preview grosses, “Wonka” managed to match the preview earnings of the box office hit “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.” Directed by Paul King and produced by David Heyman, the film features a star-studded ensemble cast, including Hugh Grant, Olivia Colman, Keegan-Michael Key, and more.
The movie is expected to debut in the $35 million to $40 million range, with a wide release in 4,203 locations, including Imax and premium large formats. Facing competition from other Warner Bros. titles like “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” and “The Color Purple,” “Wonka” aims for a marathon run at the box office throughout the holiday season.
Despite the challenges of holiday preparations, the film anticipates increased traction as families settle in after Christmas. “Wonka” benefits from strong weekday numbers, particularly as schools close for the holiday break. The musical genre, with its recent mixed history, hopes to find success akin to hits like “The Greatest Showman on Earth.”
As one of the first Hollywood releases since the end of the SAG-AFTRA strike, “Wonka” brings relief to Warner Bros. and the filmmakers. Timothée Chalamet’s growing stardom contributes to the film’s promotional efforts. The actor, also set to star in “Dune: Part Two,” has become a favorite, especially among young audiences.
In a crowded holiday season, “Wonka” aspires to capture hearts and create a lasting impact, leveraging the enduring appeal of the beloved character’s origin story. The film’s success is crucial not only for the holiday box office but also for revitalizing the musical genre in cinema.
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