A new film chronicling the origins of one of the world’s most recognizable chocolate brands has released its first trailer, featuring Alexandra Daddario and Finn Wittrock as the couple behind the Hershey chocolate empire.
The movie, titled Hershey, explores the life of chocolatier and businessman Milton S. Hershey and his wife Catherine, tracing their journey from early struggles to the creation of a global brand.
Story Behind the Hershey Empire
The film follows Milton and Catherine Hershey from their first meeting through decades of partnership as they build what would become The Hershey Company, founded in 1894.
It also highlights Milton Hershey’s repeated early business failures before his breakthrough in the chocolate industry and the eventual expansion of the Hershey brand and the town of Hershey, Pennsylvania.
Cast and Production Team
Alongside Daddario and Wittrock, the film features a supporting cast that includes Alan Ruck, David Costabile, Daniel David Stewart, Dina Spybey-Waters, Francesca Faridany, Heléne Yorke, Michael Moreland Milligan, Joel Brady, and Richard Kind.
The film is directed by Mark Waters, known for Mean Girls. The screenplay is written by Sharon Paul and Timothy Michael Hayes, with story development by Bubba Fulcher and Will Hardy.
Production Scale and Filming Details
According to production details, Hershey was filmed across 17 locations in Pennsylvania, where the original chocolate company was founded.
The production involved more than 1,500 background actors and nearly 300 period-accurate costumes for the lead cast. Alexandra Daddario alone reportedly wore more than 50 custom-designed costumes during filming.
The set also used large quantities of chocolate props and materials to recreate the era authentically.
Story Scope and Historical Timeline
The film spans approximately five decades of Milton Hershey’s life, beginning in the 1870s and continuing through the early 1900s.
It also highlights the couple’s broader legacy, including the creation of the Milton Hershey School, a philanthropic institution established in 1909 to support children’s education.
Legacy and Impact
Peter G. Gurt, president of the Milton Hershey School, said the story reflects the long-lasting impact of Milton and Catherine Hershey’s vision.
He noted that their legacy continues through the school’s students and emphasized the importance of sharing the couple’s story with a wider audience.
Release Date
Hershey is scheduled to be released in theaters on November 25.
Conclusion
With a combination of historical storytelling, large-scale production, and a focus on the origins of a global brand, Hershey aims to bring the personal and business story of Milton and Catherine Hershey to the big screen.
