HOLLYWOOD is coming to Dorset as a major film production is filmed in the area. 

Warner Bros and the Roald Dahl Story Co’s upcoming movie ‘Wonka’ will be filmed in Lyme Regis. 

The movie is a brand-new adaptation based on the characters created by children’s author Roald Dahl for the beloved novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

The prequel, to be helmed by Paddington director Paul King, will focus on a young Willy Wonka and his adventures before he opened his famous chocolate factory.

This is what we know so far about the filming and what to expect.

What is the filming?

Bridport and Lyme Regis News: The Wonka set at Lyme Regis Harbour. Picture: Dorset CouncilThe Wonka set at Lyme Regis Harbour. Picture: Dorset Council

The filming is set to take place on Monday (October 11) and Tuesday (October 12) on the Cobb in Lyme Regis.

It is reported that scenes to be filmed at the Cobb will include a spectacular snow scene and see a young Willy Wonka arrive in England.

Historic vessel Lydia Eva will be used for the scenes showing a passenger steamer bringing the main man to the country.

The vessel, built in 1930 and now restored as a floating museum, arrived at Lyme Regis harbour last month.

Along with the Lydia Eva, pre-production crews are already in Lyme, as preparations begin for the filming.

The Cobb is slowly being transformed into a snowy scene, with a smoke machine pictured on set. You can in fact see this snowy scene on Dorset Council's webcam of the harbour. 

A number of props have also arrived including a wooden building, a staircase that appears to lead to somewhere, barrels, and prop fish. A number of vintage vehicles have also been spotted around the area. 

Production equipment and vehicles are also set to be based in Monmouth Beach car park during the filming.

Due to the filming, Lyme Regis Aquarium is closed until Wednesday, October 13.

Who will be in the cast for Wonka?

Bridport and Lyme Regis News: Olivia Coleman (left) and Timothée Chalamet (right) will start in Wonka, which will be partially filmed in Lyme Regis, Dorset. Pictures: PA/ Daryl TurnerOlivia Coleman (left) and Timothée Chalamet (right) will start in Wonka, which will be partially filmed in Lyme Regis, Dorset. Pictures: PA/ Daryl Turner

Oscar nominee and Dune star Timothée Chalamet was cast as the main character Willy Wonka several months ago as the production aimed for a stellar cast.

Oscar-winner and Broadchurch actress Olivia Coleman will be among the stars set to appear in the feature-length musical, along with Mr Bean actor Rowan Atkinson and Paddington and The Shape of Water star Sally Hawkins and Great British Bake Off presenter Matt Lucas.

The cast list also includes Keegan-Michael Key, Mathew Baynton, Jim Carter, Tom Davis, Farnaby, Rich Fulcher, Kobna Holdbrook-Smith, Paterson Joseph, Calah Lane, Colin O'Brien, Natasha Rothwell, Rakhee Thakrar and Ellie White.

It is not currently known which of the actors will be a part of the filming in Lyme Regis. 

Can I watch the filming?

As it is a public place, you are permitted to watch from afar and see if you can get a glimpse of anyone famous.

Security crews are likely going to surround the harbour and will possibly inform people not to take photographs or video in a bid to protect the secrecy of the filming.

According to Lyme Regis Town Council, public access to the Cobb will be restricted during filming, but full access will be maintained while the set is being dressed.

When will the film be released? 

Bridport and Lyme Regis News:

Wonka is set to be released on March 17, 2023.