If you’re looking to feel like a kid again, “Alice in Wonderland” is not the flick for you. The Tim Burton film that came out Friday stars Mia Wasikowska as Alice Kingsley who falls down a rabbit hole after trying to escape an awkward engagement party. Alice is convinced she is dreaming, when she is really in an alternate world, Underland.
Upon her arrival, Alice is met by a whole slew of characters including the Mad Hatter, played by Johnny Depp; Chessur the Cheshire Cat, played by Stephen Fry; Tweedledee and Tweedledum, both played by Matt Lucas; the White Queen played by Anne Hathaway; the Red Queen played by Helena Bonham Carter, who some of you may remember from the movie “Fight Club”; and of course, the sage Absolem the caterpillar played by Alan Rickman.
You find out Alice has once visited Underland a.k.a. Wonderland, but she has no recollection of it. When Absolem the caterpillar is misunderstood, everyone believes that the wrong Alice has returned to Underland. She is told that she is the only one who can slay the Jabberwocky, which is a dragon who is controlled by the Red Queen. Absolem reminds Alice of her previous visit to Underland and attempts to give her the courage to fight and kill the Jabberwocky. Basically, the fate of Underland depends on Alice.
The film was a little difficult to follow at times; however, I was entertained, especially because I saw it in 3-D. Johnny Depp really seemed to be the comic relief throughout the movie. Complete with psychedelic colors, awesome special effects, and crazy costumes, Underland is the epitome of a dream world.
As I mentioned before, Tim Burton directed the film. He is known for his work on other films like “Big Fish,” “Beetlejuice,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” and “Edward Scissorhands.” If you have seen any of these films, then you are aware that Tim Burton directs and produces some odd, but great movies.
“Alice in Wonderland” in 2010 is not even in the same ballpark as the “Alice in Wonderland” I saw when I was a little girl, which gave me nightmares by the way. I don’t believe this film is one that a child would enjoy nor understand. But because it is “Alice in Wonderland,” I think children today should at least know the story.
The film seems to be getting mixed reviews, and I can understand that. I didn’t walk out of the theater completely blown away. Had it not been in 3-D, I probably would not have really enjoyed it. On a scale of 1 to 10, I give it a 6.5. Is it worth all the hype? Not really. Honestly, I’m surprised that Disney is taking part in a film that is so un-Disney like, if that makes sense. All in all, I’d recommend anyone to check it out.