In the United Kingdom, on this very day in 1971, the soon-to-be classic, whimsical musical (yes, it's a musical) fantasy that is "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory" was turned loose on the British public. I love the movie, which was so innovative in so many ways. For example, director Mel Stuart was primarily a documentary filmmaker and took on the project largely because his daughter begged him to adapt Roald Dahl's book. This is why the parts of the film where we visit the winners, or where the public is reacting, feel like actual news reports and documentary footage.
Also, the film was bankrolled by Quaker Oats for $3 million primarily to launch a tie-in candy line. However, the initial chocolate formula had a defect and melted easily at room temperature, forcing the company to recall the candy before the movie's premiere. Oops.
But listen, I'm not here to tell you about Wonka. You already know about Wonka. Either he lives in your heart or he doesn't. So all of what I've told you, while true, is also mostly an excuse to drop today's video on you: Willy Wonka and the Corporate Attorney. Enjoy!
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