Warner Bros. has begun compiling a list of stars to play the titular role in the new ‘Willy Wonka’ film directed by ‘Paddington’ helmer Paul King. At the top of the list are Ryan Gosling, Donald Glover, and Ezra Miller. Strangely enough, those three are on the top of MY list of, well….moving on!
The film comes from ‘Harry Potter’ producer David Heyman and screenwriter Simon Rich (‘Man Seeking Woman’). It is rumored that the film will serve as a prequel that will explore Wonka’s origin story.
The studio really can’t go wrong with any of the actors, and each comes with his own set of pros and cons. Warner Bros. has a lot invested in Miller, as he stars in the ‘Fantastic Beasts’ franchise (which is produced by Heyman) and plays The Flash in the DC movie universe. Miller may already have enough on his plate.
The studio is, of course, no stranger to Gosling, who has been featured in ‘Blade Runner 2049,’ ‘Crazy, Stupid Love,’ ‘The Nice Guys’ and ‘Gangster Squad.’ Gosling could stand to dabble in the family friendly realm, as most of his films have been aimed at adult audiences.
‘Solo’ star Glover is perhaps the most visible choice right now, but he may be too busy between his hit FX series ‘Atlanta’ and his growing music career. When it comes to film, he is providing the voice of Simba in Disney’s live-action remake of ‘The Lion King.’ It is rumored that Glover has actively been chasing the role, and he would absolutely be a breath of fresh air from Johnny Depp, who led Tim Burton‘s 2005 adaptation.
Representatives for Warner Bros., Miller and Glover did not respond to requests for comment regarding the rumored shortlist. Stay tuned for more news regarding the ‘Willy Wonka’ project as it becomes available!
