Imagine our unbridled excitement when we learned that Netflix has acquired rights to the Roald Dahl Story Company (RDSC) and plans to implement their plans of recreating the universe in various formats. Our inner child is squealing in delight!
Roald Dahl, with his mysterious and magical stories for children, has delighted generation after generation with his whimsical worlds. To see our favourite children’s authors’ works come to life on our beloved streaming platform is definitely an unanticipated early Christmas present.
Netflix’s initial deal with the author’s company involved an animated series based on Charlie And The Chocolate Factory and a live-action adaptation of Matilda: The Musical.
However, the streaming platform has now decided to not only stick to animated and live-action films and series but also venture into the world of games, publishing, theatre, merch, immersive experiences and more — capitalising on the author’s unfathomable legacy.
Along with the MD of RDSC, Luke Kelly, Ted Sarandos, the big shot at Netflix HQ released a joint statement, stating how “these stories and their messages of power and possibility of young people have never felt more pertinent” owing to such unprecedented times.
They added, “As we bring these timeless tales to more audiences in new formats, we’re committed to maintaining their unique spirit and their universal themes of surprise and kindness, while also sprinkling some fresh magic into the mix.”
Based on their shared “love of storytelling” and a shared “global, growing fan base”, Netflix and RDSC want to encash this “extraordinary opportunity to write multiple new chapters of these beloved stories, delighting children and adults around the world for generations to come.”
All the 26 employees of RDSC will be retained. The profit sales will contribute to a trust that will focus on children’s health and combating anti-racism and anti-hate.
Timothee Chalamet is set to reprise the role of Willy Wonka while we published an article that updates the current production of Matilda. Read it here.
