A new biopic is set to hit screens later this year, offering a glimpse into the life of the founder of the American confectionery brand Hershey. However, the release of its trailer has sparked mixed reactions among fans, with some expressing disappointment over its portrayal and overall tone.
The film, titled Hershey, follows the journey of Milton S. Hershey, the visionary behind one of the most iconic chocolate brands in the United States. Directed by Mark Waters, known for his work on Mean Girls and Freaky Friday, the movie stars Finn Wittrock as Milton and Alexandra Daddario as his wife, Kitty. The story explores how Hershey transitioned from making caramels to pioneering milk chocolate candies at the turn of the 20th century.
The trailer opens with Wittrock’s character declaring, “Candy is not just my business; candy is my obsession. I want to make a perfect product.” This line sets the tone for a narrative that seems to blend ambition with a touch of nostalgia. However, the film’s presentation has been criticized by some viewers, who found the script and music to be overly artificial and reminiscent of a made-for-TV production.
One user on X compared the trailer to a scene from 30 Rock, joking that it could have been a throwaway line from the show’s character Jack Donaghy. Others echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that the film feels like an AI-generated prompt turned into a real movie. The trailer’s use of twinkling, festive music has also drawn criticism, with some fans questioning whether Hollywood is running out of original ideas for biopics.
This is not the first time a corporate figure has been the subject of a biographical film. Recent years have seen a surge in such movies, including The Founder (about McDonald’s), Blackberry (2023), and multiple films about Steve Jobs. Additionally, Wonka featuring Timothée Chalamet and Unfrosted, a comedy about the invention of the Pop-Tart, have also received attention.
Fans of the film have pointed out that Hershey is produced by Angel Studios, a company known for its values-based projects and Christian themes. Some viewers noticed these elements immediately, with one fan on X commenting that the trailer felt like an Angel Studios movie but focused on Hershey instead of a religious topic. The studio’s aesthetic has been described as “chintzy” by some, adding to the perception that the film feels inauthentic.
Despite the criticisms, there are still fans who are excited about the movie. One standout moment in the trailer is the casting of Richard Kind, a well-known actor from US TV comedy. His appearance as a mentor figure to young Milton has generated positive reactions, with one fan joking, “1 min, 30 seconds: RICHARD KIND I AM IN.”
Beyond the chocolate industry, the film also touches on the historical impact of the Hershey family. In 1909, Milton and Kitty founded the Hershey Industrial School, which provided free education and housing to orphans and underprivileged children. This initiative later became a significant part of their legacy through a trust.
The movie was shot in Pennsylvania, where a town was built around the Hershey factory. The film is scheduled for release in the US on November 26, 2026, coinciding with Thanksgiving. A UK release date has yet to be announced.
