Angel Studios has officially released the first teaser trailer for Hershey, a forthcoming biographical drama chronicling the foundational story of the iconic American chocolate company and its visionary founder, Milton S. Hershey, alongside his wife, Catherine "Kitty" Hershey. The unveiling of this initial footage, distributed on April 15, 2026, has ignited a considerable degree of discussion across various media platforms and among prospective audiences, largely focusing on its distinctive aesthetic and narrative approach. The film, directed by Mark Waters, aims to illuminate the personal and professional journey that transformed a series of entrepreneurial endeavors into a global confectionery empire and a lasting philanthropic legacy.
A Glimpse into the ‘Hershey’ Narrative
The teaser provides an early look into the cinematic portrayal of Milton Hershey’s life, tracing his path from humble beginnings and numerous setbacks to the eventual establishment of The Hershey Company. The narrative is set to explore the pivotal moments in the company’s genesis, from its roots as a candy shop in Philadelphia in 1873, its evolution into a successful caramel enterprise by 1883, and the subsequent launch of Hershey Chocolate as a subsidiary, culminating in the production of the first Hershey’s Milk Chocolate bar in 1900. The film intends to highlight the enduring vision of Milton and Kitty Hershey and their profound impact, particularly their commitment to community and education, which notably led to the creation of the Milton Hershey School.
The ensemble cast features Finn Wittrock in the titular role of Milton S. Hershey, a seasoned actor known for his diverse roles in film, television, and theatre, including appearances in American Horror Story and The Big Short. Opposite him, Alexandra Daddario, recognized for her work in The White Lotus and the Percy Jackson film series, portrays Catherine "Kitty" Hershey. Supporting roles are filled by a roster of established actors, including Alan Ruck, Richard Kind, David Costabile, and Heléne Yorke. This combination of a well-known director and a recognizable cast, coupled with the intriguing subject matter, positions Hershey as a potentially significant release for the Thanksgiving 2026 holiday season.
Unpacking the Vision: Mark Waters and Angel Studios at the Helm
The directorial reins for Hershey are held by Mark Waters, an American filmmaker whose extensive career spans a variety of genres, though he is perhaps best known for his successful work in comedic and family-oriented films. His filmography includes popular titles such as Freaky Friday (2003), the critically acclaimed teen comedy Mean Girls (2004), Just Like Heaven (2005), and Mr. Popper’s Penguins (2011). More recently, Waters has directed films like Bad Santa 2 (2016), He’s All That (2021), and Mother of the Bride (2024). The decision to helm a historical drama, particularly one centered on an iconic American figure, represents a notable shift or expansion in Waters’ directorial portfolio, inviting curiosity about his interpretation of the material.
Waters articulated his personal connection to the project, stating, "Just about everyone knows the Hershey name through chocolate, but what immediately drew me to Milton’s story were the obstacles & struggles he overcame to achieve his success. And then, unlike many wealthy men of his time (and ours), he chose to share that success with the working people and the community around him. That spirit, embodied by the love story between Milton & Catherine Hershey, is the core of our movie, and led to the creation of the still-thriving Milton Hershey School." This statement underscores the film’s intended focus on themes of perseverance, philanthropy, and the human relationships that underpinned Hershey’s empire, aligning with a narrative that seeks to inspire and inform.
Angel Studios’ Unique Distribution Model and Target Audience
The distribution of Hershey through Angel Studios is a critical aspect of its release strategy and reception. Angel Studios has carved out a unique niche in the film industry, primarily known for producing and distributing faith-based and family-friendly content. The studio gained significant public attention and commercial success with projects like The Chosen, a multi-season series about the life of Jesus, and the 2023 feature film Sound of Freedom, which achieved unexpected box office triumphs. Angel Studios employs a distinctive "pay-it-forward" model, allowing viewers to contribute financially to support the production and distribution of its content, often leading to a highly engaged and dedicated audience base.
This distribution model, combined with Angel Studios’ brand identity, suggests a particular target demographic for Hershey. The film is likely to appeal to audiences seeking inspiring, uplifting narratives that highlight traditional values, entrepreneurial spirit, and philanthropic endeavors. The earnest tone and perhaps a more straightforward storytelling approach observed in the teaser might be a deliberate choice to resonate with this core audience, potentially explaining some of the initial reactions from a broader cinematic public accustomed to different styles of biopics. The screenplay for Hershey is credited to T.M. Hayes and Sharon Paul, from a story developed by Sharon Paul, Mark Waters, Will Hardy, and Bubba Fulcher, with a production team including Mary Aloe, Joshua Harris, Sharon Paul, Mark Tilghman, and Will Hardy.
The Legacy of Milton S. Hershey: A Deep Dive into the Chocolate Empire’s Roots
To fully appreciate the scope and potential impact of the Hershey biopic, it is essential to delve into the historical context and profound legacy of Milton S. Hershey and The Hershey Company. Born in Derry Township, Pennsylvania, in 1857, Milton Hershey’s early life was marked by a series of entrepreneurial ventures that initially met with failure. His first attempt at a candy business in Philadelphia in 1876, after an apprenticeship with a confectioner, ultimately failed. Undeterred, he moved to Denver, where he learned the art of caramel making, and later to New York, where another candy business proved unsuccessful.
The Birth of an American Icon: From Caramel to Chocolate
It was upon his return to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1883, that Hershey’s fortunes began to turn. With a recipe for caramels he had acquired in Denver, he founded the Lancaster Caramel Company. This venture proved immensely successful, allowing him to establish a solid financial foundation. However, Hershey, ever the innovator, saw a greater potential in chocolate. After witnessing a chocolate-making machine at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, he purchased the equipment for his Lancaster plant.
In 1894, he established the Hershey Chocolate Company as a subsidiary of his caramel business. His pioneering spirit led him to develop a formula for milk chocolate that could be mass-produced and distributed widely, a feat that had previously been difficult to achieve in the United States. The first Hershey’s Milk Chocolate bar, an accessible luxury for the average American, was introduced in 1900. By 1903, Hershey had sold his highly successful Lancaster Caramel Company for $1 million (an enormous sum at the time), dedicating his full attention and resources to chocolate manufacturing.
He then embarked on building a new factory in his birthplace, Derry Township, Pennsylvania, in 1905. This was not merely a factory but the foundation of an entire community, later named Hershey, Pennsylvania. He envisioned a town where his workers could live comfortably, with affordable housing, quality schools, public transportation, and recreational facilities. This paternalistic approach to industrial development was revolutionary for its time, creating a model company town designed for the well-being of its employees. The iconic Hershey’s Kisses were introduced in 1907, further cementing the company’s place in American culture.
The Philanthropic Vision: Milton Hershey School
Beyond his business acumen, Milton Hershey is perhaps most remembered for his profound commitment to philanthropy. Unable to have children of their own, Milton and Catherine "Kitty" Hershey established the Hershey Industrial School (now known as the Milton Hershey School) in 1909. This institution was founded as a residential school for orphaned boys, providing them with a comprehensive education, vocational training, and a nurturing home environment, all free of charge. In 1918, Milton Hershey irrevocably endowed the school with his entire personal fortune, including his controlling interest in The Hershey Company. This monumental act of generosity ensured the school’s perpetual funding and solidified his legacy as a benefactor of unparalleled vision. Today, the Milton Hershey School continues its mission, providing a cost-free education and home to thousands of children in need, demonstrating the lasting impact of the Hersheys’ shared vision.
The story of Milton Hershey is one of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to societal betterment—a narrative ripe for cinematic exploration. The film’s challenge lies in translating this complex history, replete with personal struggles, business triumphs, and philanthropic endeavors, into a compelling and engaging visual story that resonates with contemporary audiences while remaining true to the historical record.
Navigating Public Perception: Early Reactions and Industry Speculation
The initial public and industry reaction to the Hershey teaser trailer has been notably polarized, generating considerable online discussion. While some viewers have expressed enthusiasm for a film exploring the origins of such a beloved brand and its philanthropic founder, a significant portion of the early commentary has centered on the trailer’s perceived production values and stylistic choices. Terms like "stylized period aesthetic" and "earnest dialogue" have been used to describe the footage, with some critics suggesting a visual and tonal quality that diverges from typical expectations for a major studio biopic.
This divergence in perception highlights the inherent challenges of adapting historical narratives for the screen, particularly when dealing with iconic figures and brands. Biopics often walk a fine line between historical accuracy, dramatic license, and audience engagement. The initial teaser for Hershey presents a clean, brightly lit aesthetic with dialogue that, in the context of a short preview, has been interpreted by some as overly sincere or simplistic. This could be an intentional stylistic choice by Waters and Angel Studios to emphasize the uplifting and inspiring aspects of Hershey’s story, aligning with the studio’s broader mission to produce positive, value-driven content. However, for a segment of the audience accustomed to more gritty, realistic, or visually sophisticated historical dramas, this approach might appear less compelling.
The Challenges of Historical Biopics in Modern Cinema
Historical biopics face unique pressures in the contemporary cinematic landscape. They are often scrutinized for their historical fidelity, the performances of their lead actors, and their ability to capture the essence of a bygone era. Recent successful biopics, such as Oppenheimer (2023) or Air (2023), have demonstrated that audiences respond to compelling storytelling, strong performances, and high production values. Conversely, films that are perceived as lacking in these areas, or that adopt a tone that feels out of step with modern cinematic sensibilities, can struggle to connect with a broad viewership.
The Hershey trailer’s reception also invites comparison to other "corporate origin" stories that have seen varied success. Films like The Founder (2016), which depicted the rise of McDonald’s, or BlackBerry (2023), which chronicled the tech company’s downfall, offered nuanced, often unsentimental portrayals of ambition, innovation, and ethical dilemmas. The Hershey film, based on the director’s statement, appears to lean into a more celebratory and inspirational narrative, focusing on overcoming adversity and shared success. This tonal difference could be a key factor in how the film is ultimately received by diverse audiences.
Broader Implications and Anticipated Release
The initial buzz surrounding the Hershey trailer, even if mixed, serves to place the film squarely on the radar of moviegoers and industry observers. In an era where viral content, positive or negative, can significantly impact a film’s visibility, the spirited discussion generated by the teaser could inadvertently benefit its marketing efforts. A film that sparks conversation, regardless of its initial tenor, often achieves greater awareness than one that passes by unnoticed.
The Thanksgiving 2026 release window positions Hershey as a potential holiday season offering. This period is often competitive, with studios releasing films aimed at family audiences or those vying for awards consideration. Angel Studios’ choice of this slot suggests confidence in the film’s appeal and its ability to draw a substantial audience. The Thanksgiving release also aligns with the family-friendly nature often associated with the Hershey brand itself, potentially creating a synergistic effect for moviegoers seeking wholesome entertainment during the holidays.
The Road Ahead for ‘Hershey’
As Hershey moves closer to its theatrical debut, subsequent trailers and promotional materials will be crucial in shaping public perception and clarifying the film’s artistic intentions. A full-length trailer could offer a more comprehensive look at the narrative, the depth of the performances, and the overall production quality, potentially addressing some of the questions raised by the initial teaser.
The film’s ultimate success will depend on its ability to transcend initial reactions and deliver a compelling, well-crafted story that honors Milton Hershey’s legacy while also engaging a broad audience. The philanthropic message, the inspiring story of overcoming failure, and the romantic element between Milton and Kitty Hershey all offer rich thematic material. Whether Mark Waters and Angel Studios can successfully blend these elements into a universally acclaimed biopic, or if Hershey will remain a subject of debate, remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that the story of America’s chocolate king is poised to generate significant interest as its release date approaches.
