It was a scandal that shocked the world. Hard working British families were promised the experience of a lifetime… and instead witnessed a horror show. In this astounding documentary, we expose the truth behind the Willy’s Chocolate Experience one of the biggest scandals of recent times, which became a news story that made international headlines. We reveal how organisers used AI to create fake adverts and posters showcasing a magical wonderland, but in reality, rented a warehouse and filled it with cheap-looking props and cardboard cut-outs.
We also meet the victims, who share their stories of anger, disappointment, and disbelief; and the staff, who became overnight sensations on social media, as their performances went viral. We hear from consumer experts, who explain how the organisers exploited the public’s love for the classic story, and how to avoid falling for such schemes in the future.
And we’ll lift the lid on other outrageous rip-offs, from a video game event that ended in the courts, to a million-pound festive festival scam which left the organisers serving time behind bars. It’s a must-see documentary that will have you questioning every penny you spend on a family day out.
Mentorn Media is one of the UK’s most established and respected producers, run by Chris Brogden, Managing Director and Head of Content for the Tinopolis Factual Group.
Founded in 1985, Mentorn Media has gone on to produce thousands of hours of programming for broadcasters in the UK and internationally.
With production bases in London and Glasgow, the team produces programmes with a focus on entertainment and factual, ranging from long-running current affairs stalwart Question Time and Debate Night for BBC One & BBC Scotland, to Inside the Force: 24/7 (Channel 5), Traffic Cops (Channel 5) and Secrets of an ISIS Smartphone (BBC3) as well as Children of the Cult for Discovery+.
Other shows have ranged from Council House Swap for Channel 5 to Freshers for ITV, and international hit show An Idiot Abroad for Sky, which has been sold into more than 200 territories.