In the face of streaming competitors building new original series based on corporate owned IP like Disney’s upcoming Marvel based series, Netflix will be home to its own original titles based on beloved stories. And they do not have to share them with Disney. The streaming network is working with Taika Waititi, of Jojo Rabbit and Thor Ragnarök on an animated version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. A story Hollywood Reporter states that will be taking on both Charlie and the Chocolate Factory as well as an original story about the Oompa-Loompas.
The projects come after an agreement with the estate of Author Roald Dahl. There is no reason to think this is all we will see concerning Charlie Bucket. Dahl wrote another story that takes place in the same fictional universe called Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator, which is a direct sequel to Charlie And The Chocolate Factory. If the already announced projects take off fans may be able to see a large series of stories roll out based on the world of Willy Wonka.
Dahl, while not intending to construct a Universe of his own created a number of characters who have captured the imagination of readers for years leaving open the possibility that projects could be weaved together and exist in the same place. Not that James and his giant peach are going to float over Willy Wonka’s Factory, but a recognizable set of characters could give Netflix a lot to play with in the future.
