Introducing Characters 3: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (bonus)

Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

Though his name is in the title, and many characters have spoken about him during the first act of the film, Willy Wonka is not introduced until relatively late in the film. This allows the filmmakers to use different techniques to introduce the character that wouldn't be possible in an opening.

The reverence with which people speak of him and the opening act of the film give the audience an expectation about who Willy Wonka is, and the filmmakers make great value out of playing with those expectations. 




As soon as Willy Wonka is introduced, we can infer something's wrong based on the characters response, they seem to be visibly disappointed, supported by his cane, he seems to be nothing more than a helpless old man. However, when all of sudden he seems to be losing his balance, he rolls into a delightful somersault, the mood instantaneously uplifts and the crowd cheer. This is the character they had been waiting for. By putting the audience through a rollercoaster of emotions along with the unexpected turn, inevitably makes Willy Wonka's character completely memorable and iconic.

We feel at ease due to his softly spoken manner, and his costume tells us he is eccentric, and likely very aware of his public persona as a mysterious figure. He is playful, and patient, but he is also a trickster and a showman, and someone not necessarily to be trusted.

In conclusion, when introducing a character later into the story, the filmmakers are able to use the audience expectations set up in the prior scenes to play with their emotions, and create compelling characters by defying those expectations.