Let there be no mistake Alice in Wonderland (2010) is definitely a Tim Burton film, overflowing with highly visual imagery and his signature quirky, lighthearted, and dark style. This film was not just another book based film but more of a mixed up version of the original Alice masterpieces. Tim and the Disney team have created a wonderfully creative story incorporating the nonsensical characters and imaginative creature from the world of wonderland. As with many of Hollywood’s book based films, this is not an accurate representation of the words found in the pages of Lewis Carroll books, but still the movies is an entertaining, edge of your seat, fun ride.
Fully loaded cast of all stars such as: Mia Wasikowska (Alice), Helena Bonham Carter(Red Queen), Anne Hathaway (White Queen), and of course Johnny Depp (Mad Hatter), Johnny and Helena have worked together in other Burton films such as Sweeney Todd. This dynamic pair have amazing on screen chemistry and blend well with Burton’s bizarre style. Depp’s performance at moments had the feel of Captain Jack Sparrow, which I found rather amusing. Helena has quite a knack for the evil wicked woman role, you may remember her from the Harry Potter movies. Speaking of which, I believe the voice of the blue caterpillar was done by Alan Rickman AKA Severus Snape.
Alice is an Nineteen years old and suffers from mad dreams of wonderland. While attending her own surprise engagement party Alice notices a very white rabbit in a dress coat of course. The rabbit has been sent to seek out the original Alice in hopes that she will save under-land as the prophecy predicts she will. Alice is to become a champion for the white queen and slay the wicked Red Queen’s jabberwocky and end her rule over the land. Alice is unsure of her abilities and if she truly is the Alice of the prophecy. She continues to convince herself that it is all her own dream and that she can control it if she pleases. Alice becomes reacquainted with all her old wonderland friends including the positively insane mad hatter and march hare . Alice is also consulted to become the champion the prediction requires by Absolem, a blue, hookah smoking caterpillar (which may suggest the use marijuana but is not implied). Parents who may have issues with this kind of imagery should preview the film before their children do. Alice soon learns what she is made of and becomes the champion needed to end the Red Queen’s wicked rule over Wonderland. After returning home she tells those pressuring her to be wed that she will be pursuing her own path in life from now on.
Was it a dream or not? I believe Burton has chosen to suggest that what Alice has just experienced was in fact reality. I say this because while in wonderland Alice is injured by the Bandersnatch, this wound is predominately displayed in one of the final scenes after she has returned from wonderland. Will there be a sequel? I certainly hopes so, Burton/Depp duo has always entertained this movie goer.
Explore the wonderful world of Alice and her wonderland friends by reading Lewis Carroll’s original books and watching Disney’s original animated classic.
Tim Burton has a unique style when making his movie. I love Nightmare Before Christmas and Edward Scissorhands.’*~