Timothée Chalamet’s latest movie, “Wonka,” is off to a promising start at the box office, with impressive first-day numbers that indicate a successful opening weekend. The film is expected to earn between $35-$40 million domestically by the end of Sunday, showing a solid performance for Chalamet and Warner Bros.
Key Takeaway
Timothée Chalamet’s “Wonka” demonstrates a strong start at the box office, but falls behind Johnny Depp’s previous portrayal of the character in terms of box office performance. The modern movie landscape and shifting audience habits contribute to the context of the box office comparison.
Chalamet’s ‘Wonka’ Box Office Performance
On its first day, “Wonka” has already raked in about $14.4 million from Thursday previews and Friday showings, placing it well ahead of other films currently in theaters. With minimal competition, the family-friendly movie is poised to dominate ticket sales over the weekend.
Comparison with Johnny Depp’s ‘Wonka’
Despite its strong start, Chalamet’s “Wonka” falls short when compared to Johnny Depp’s portrayal of the character in the 2005 film, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Depp’s version outperformed Chalamet’s in both first-day earnings and opening weekend revenue, with the former bringing in approximately $20 million on its first day and $56 million over the weekend. Throughout its theatrical run, Depp’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” amassed over $206 million domestically, showcasing its enduring popularity.
Critical Reception and Context
While Chalamet’s “Wonka” has received a respectable 84% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, similar to Depp’s film, the modern movie landscape presents challenges for box office success. The shift in audience behavior and moviegoing habits has impacted overall theater attendance. Despite this, Chalamet’s performance at the box office is considered commendable in the current economic climate.
It’s worth noting that the original 1971 film adaptation of “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory,” starring Gene Wilder, did not achieve significant box office success at the time, despite being a beloved classic. In contrast, Chalamet’s portrayal is positioned as a strong contender in the “Wonka” legacy.
