NEW YORK — "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory" opened “the world of pure imagination” to audiences of all ages.

Actor Gene Wilder, who died in 2016, made Wonka one of the most iconic roles in film. Peter Ostrum, who played the pivotal role of the impoverished Charlie Bucket, credits Wilder for the success of the film.

“One of the main reasons why it's so successful was that Gene Wilder was Willy Wonka, and he will always be remembered as THE Willy Wonka,” says Ostrum.

Michael Bollner played the role of the always hungry Augustus Gloop. He, of course, remembers the chocolate.

“First off it was, of course, the chocolate room which was really impressive,” says Bollner. “It was really nicely done. And of course, all the foreign people running around was very impressive to me.”

Actress Julie Dawn Cole played the character of the spoiled Veruca Salt. Cole’s kids were raised on the film, proof of its lasting impact.

“They grew up with it,” says Cole. “Occasionally got a little kudos with their friends. You know, 'Is your mom really Veruca Salt? Can we come and see the golden ticket?' I have a granddaughter who’s one-and-a-half. She's a little young for this at the moment, but I shall look forward to showing it to her one day.”

Ostrum and Cole said their group has reunited over the years.

“Initially we went our separate ways and we really had no contact with each other,” says Ostrum.

They found each other again when the film turned 25, says Cole: “It was 25 years later. Some of us were reunited, although it took longer to find Michael (Bollner.)”

The film was released in 1971. The newly restored version, in 4K Ultra-HD, is available now.