It’s a delicate balance to make a children’s movie that appeals to both kids and their discerning parents.

Wonka tries to be all things to all people, to varying results. But one thing is for certain — Timothee Chalamet makes this one worthwhile regardless.

He is magnetic and endlessly charming as a young Willy Wonka, an ambitious chocolatier who is a bit too trusting and idealistic for a cruel world.

Chalamet gives a tender, moving portrait of a character so often seen as bizarre. Gene Wilder’s Wonka was off-kilter (in a good way) and Johnny Depp’s was downright strange. But Chalamet finds the right balance between quirky and lovable, and his commitment to the part makes this one a success.

Wonka moves to London to open his own chocolate shop, but soon finds other candy-making titans — as well as others who prey on his naivety — threaten his path to achieving his dreams.

Director Paul King is best known for the incredible Paddington films, and offers beautiful visions, fantastic costume design and lovely sets, even if Wonka doesn’t reach the heights of his previous efforts.

Olivia Colman, Calah Lane, Paterson Joseph, Matt Joseph, Rowan Atkinson and Keegan-Michael Key are clearly having a great time here, but Hugh Grant is terribly miscast as a grumpy Oompa Loompa.

Wonka is a really enjoyable movie that will bring out the youthful pieces of your heart, even if it’s not as smart as it sometimes thinks it is.

Chalamet makes this a must-watch based on his performance alone, despite the fact the script sometimes lets him down.

3/5 Stars