What Did Mr. Wonka Do with the Large Chocolate Bar in the Movie?

In the 1971 Willy Wonka the Chocolate Factory movie, the eccentric confectioner Mr. Willy Wonka created a remarkable feat: he shrank a large chocolate bar so that it could be sent in pieces to televisions worldwide. While this idea might seem far-fetched from an economic perspective, it serves as an interesting case study in marketing and innovation.

As viewers, we are often busy dissecting the fantastical elements and the outrageous antics of Willy Wonka, but it's worth a moment to consider the logic behind his actions. Willy Wonka is known for his sophisticated and imaginative marketing strategies, which often involve breaking traditional norms. His shrunken chocolate bar was an ingenious solution to a complex problem, and here's why:

1. Expanding Market Reach

By shrunken the chocolate bar and sending it via television, Willy Wonka was effectively creating a new form of product distribution. This move allowed him to reach a global audience through the medium of television, which was becoming increasingly popular during the 1970s. It's a brilliant marketing strategy that leveraged the widespread reach of television to promote a flagship product — the chocolate bar.

2. Enhancing Product Awareness

The idea of shrinking a colossal chocolate bar and breaking it down into bite-sized portions for televisions was, in itself, a form of brand awareness. It caught the attention of millions of viewers, generating curiosity and excitement. This level of exposure would have been invaluable in building a positive brand image and fostering a sense of mystery surrounding the Wonka brand.

3. Bridging the Gap with Consumers

Although the idea of sending a chocolate bar through television might seem absurd, it actually serves as a metaphor for bridging the gap between the magical world of chocolate production and the everyday lives of consumers. At a time when television was just starting to become a central part of people's daily routines, this innovative method of interaction felt more like a vision of the future, making it all the more captivating.

4. Economic Feasibility (Or Not)

While the idea of sending a chocolate bar through television might seem economically unfeasible, it's important to remember that marketing and innovation often push the boundaries of what is currently economically viable. Viewers, on the other hand, often focus on the practicalities and neglect the visionary nature of such ideas. Even if it was impractical, the Willy Wonka the Chocolate Factory movie has successfully used this imaginative concept to entertain and engage its audience.

5. Criticism and Discussion

Some critics might argue that it's a "fools errand" to send such a product through television, but it's precisely these ideas that make the movie a classic. The concept of a shrunken chocolate bar sent through televisions is not only entertaining but also serves as a commentary on the nature of imagination versus reality. It questions the very limits of what can be achieved in the world of marketing and storytelling.

Conclusion

While the idea of Willy Wonka shrinking a chocolate bar and sending it through televisions might seem absurd, it represents a brilliant example of innovative marketing and imaginative branding. The movie itself has become a legend, and its fantastical concepts continue to captivate audiences. Whether or not it was economically sound, the idea remains a testament to the power of creativity in the realm of marketing and entertainment.