Alice in Wonderland [2010]

June 1, 2010

Sometimes I just have to agree with the popular opinion because it’s just true. The new Alice in Wonderland is a visually stunning movie without a strong story and a beating heart. Something I wasn’t expecting from Tim Burton, the man who clearly knows how to use special effects to enhance the story and not be the story. I think this was some sort of an obligation especially since Disney greenlit Frankenweenie’s remake. But enough about that, let’s talk about what we do actually have here.

So, Alice in Wonderland, 2010 edition, is not a remake but actually a sequel based on both the original Disney movie from the fifties and Lewis Carroll’s novel. For example, Alice is now 19 years old and there are other changes to the main story. However, all the familiar characters are here and they haven’t changed one bit. They’re played by a cast of extremely recognizable actors. Even if they’re only voice-acting you’ll be able to say in an instant that Alan Rickman is the Blue Caterpillar or something like that.

In fact, there are so many popular actors they take away what little focus there is on the main story. And most of them will be overacting, especially Depp. I know he’s a great actor but sheesh just tone it down a bit buddy. This is the trouble with making not just CGI-heavy but also 3D movies. Oh yes, Alice in Wonderland is also a 3D movie because the technology will surely not be outdated in the years to come. You have to imagine how things would look like not knowing what you’re going to get in the end. And how that’s going to fit with the rest of the story.

After all of this healthy criticism, it’s time to point out the good things about this movie. The production values are simply sublime. I’m talking about the sets, costumes, and all the other little things that make the movie look as good as it can. The atmosphere is quite vibrant and if you’re willing to suspend your belief and expectations, I’m sure you’re going to have a great time. And if you, by any chance, happen to accidentally get high, I might assume the experience might be even better.

Hey, we’re just trying to compensate for the whole 3D thing you know? Plus, there’s this hookah-smoking blue caterpillar who told me it’s a good idea to get high. And I don’t have a home theater you know man. I think it’s kicking in man. Actually, I watch most of the movies now on a classic computer screen. I know this isn’t ideal but I simply cannot afford to buy big-screen TV right now. But, you didn’t come here to listen to me moan about my financial situation.

You came here to listen to me describe just how much I’ve fallen for Mia Wasikowska. I think I’m in love and I’m moving to Australia, where I can take her down my own Rabbit hole. On that note, I have to say I might’ve been judging this movie too harshly. After all, Alice in Wonderland is a PG movie for kids. Don’t get me wrong, it’s clearly also for adults and their wallets. But if we look at it from a kid’s perspective, it becomes almost a perfect movie.

A movie that might awaken a future rebel or a future artist with just one scene. It’s also full of these weird creatures that I have to admit look quite believable and stunning. As you already know, I’m not the greatest fan of CGI but sometimes it does what it’s supposed to do. You might argue they overused it here but I think that was the point of the movie. Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland is a movie that’s supposed to overwhelm you with bizarre, surreal, and excellent visuals. And it does that job flawlessly.

Finally, if you’re looking for similar movies, I suggest you start with another Tim Burton classic Big Fish. It’s much more adult-oriented while still keeping that delightfull quirkiness we all love and appriciate. Of course, if we’re talking about Johnny Depp playing weird characters, we shouldn’t forget about the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. And just a year prior, another cool movie smashed the theaters: Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events.