Netflix Gives Taika Waititi's Wonka Movie a Theater Run First

Netflix will give its animated version of Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” a theatrical release before it reaches streaming. The film, starring Taika Waititi as Willy Wonka and Kit Connor as Charlie Paley, is set to open in theaters on Nov. 5, 2027, before debuting on Netflix on Dec. 22, 2027.

The project also features voices from Nicola Coughlan, Charithra Chandran, Samson Kayo, Christopher Chung, Kate Winslet and Helena Bonham Carter. Jared Stern and Elaine Bogan are directing, with Sony Pictures Entertainment handling the international rollout. The film’s official synopsis says Wonka returns to his factory after serving time in prison, while Charlie and his friends try to break in and save their homes.

Netflix has been giving several of its bigger titles theatrical windows, including David Fincher’s untitled “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” follow-up and Greta Gerwig’s “Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew.” “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” will play exclusively in theaters for 48 days, overlapping with Warner Bros.’ holiday release “Margie Claus.”