June 30, 1971, was one of the greatest days in movie history.
It was the day Golden Tickets and Oompa Loompas became a permanent part of popular culture.
The day the late Gene Wilder first appeared in that trademark top hat and grape jacket.
The day that opened the door to a world of pure imagination.
Yes, on June 30, 1971, Paramount Pictures (and Wolper Pictures) released Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, an adaptation of Roald Dahl’s novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
The movie follows poor, sweet Charlie Bucket who, with his nutty Grandpa Joe, enters and experiences a place unlike any other – a place he’s only dreamed of. It’s a fun, silly flick with a heartwarming ending.
Even though I wasn’t alive in 1971, I can still appreciate this comical classic. And in honor of the film’s 50th anniversary, here are three reasons why Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory sits atop my list of favorites.