A new film promises to unveil the story of Milton Hershey, the visionary behind America’s iconic chocolate empire. But the initial trailer has sparked a surprising reaction – not of sweet anticipation, but of widespread skepticism.
The biopic, starring Finn Wittrock as Milton and Alexandra Daddario as Kitty Hershey, charts their journey from humble beginnings to chocolate success at the turn of the 20th century. It depicts a relentless pursuit of perfection, fueled by a singular obsession: crafting the ultimate chocolate experience.
The trailer opens with Wittrock’s Hershey declaring, “Candy is not just my business; candy is my obsession.” He secures a loan, driven by a belief in a future beyond caramels – a future dominated by milk chocolate. The narrative quickly intertwines with a blossoming romance between Milton and Kitty, hinting at a partnership built on shared dreams and a pivotal kitchen moment.
However, the presentation has drawn sharp criticism. Many viewers have likened the trailer to something produced for television, or even a satirical sketch. One observer on social media compared it to a throwaway joke from the comedy series *30 Rock*, while others suggested it felt generated by artificial intelligence.
The film arrives amidst a growing trend of biopics focused on corporate founders, following in the footsteps of films about McDonald’s, Apple, and Blackberry. Comparisons to the whimsical *Wonka* and Jerry Seinfeld’s *Unfrosted* have also surfaced, adding to the sense of a saturated market.
Beyond the narrative, the film’s aesthetic is also under scrutiny. Viewers have noted a distinct “chintziness” and a stylistic alignment with Angel Studios, a production company known for its faith-based projects. The connection was apparent to many within seconds of the trailer’s release.
Despite the overall negative response, some viewers have expressed excitement, particularly regarding the casting of Richard Kind in a supporting role. His brief appearance in the trailer, delivering the line “You like the work, there’s no sweeter way to make a living,” has generated a surprising amount of positive buzz.
The Hershey story extends beyond the creation of a beloved confection. Milton and Kitty Hershey established the Hershey Industrial School in 1909, a haven for orphaned and underprivileged children, and ultimately bequeathed the majority of their fortune to the institution. The film was shot on location in and around Hershey, Pennsylvania, the town built alongside the factory.
*Hershey* is currently slated for release in the United States on November 26, 2026. A release date for the United Kingdom has not yet been announced.
