Original artwork, not a still
I'm sorry, but all questions must be submitted in writing.
— Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory · 1971
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
It is Wonka's classic dodge: a bureaucratic brush-off from a man who made up the question's subject. Gene Wilder gives it a polite, bright manner that makes it funnier. The deadpan forms-and-paperwork voice is why the line outlived its scene, and it is the one fans quote when someone asks a question they cannot answer.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for Willy Wonka & the Chocolate FactoryShow the scene
In the Chocolate Room, Wonka explains that the Oompa-Loompas come from Loompaland, where they were gobbled up by Whangdoodles, Hornswogglers, Snozzwangers and Vermicious Knids until he offered them a safe home. Mr Salt, unimpressed, scoffs at the names and asks what kind of rubbish that is. Wonka does not argue. He says that all questions must be submitted in writing, and carries straight on with the story. Veruca then demands an Oompa-Loompa of her own.
Sources (2)
- Wikiquote: Willy Wonka & the Chocolate FactoryChocolate Room, Oompa-Loompas exchangeReference checked
- Springfield! Springfield! film transcriptChocolate Room, Loompaland speechReference checked
Context reviewed
