Behind the Camera with Mel Stuart: From Willy Wonka to Wattstax

Mel Stuart may not be a household name, but his work has left an indelible mark on generations of film lovers. In this rare and insightful interview, the legendary director reflects on his time bringing Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory to life—sharing stories about Gene Wilder’s iconic performance, the challenges of turning a whimsical tale into a cinematic classic, and the unexpected magic that happened on set. Stuart also opens up about casting Richard Pryor in Wattstax, the groundbreaking concert film that captured the soul of Black America in the 1970s. It’s a journey through cinema history with a man who helped shape it.