Johnny Depp’s glowing yellow eyes, Anne Hathaway’s floaty presence and Helena Bonham Carter’s massive head – these are just a few of the details that gave Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland its character. Obviously, more significant criterion led to the film’s blowout weekend, and as with most movies, some things could have been better. Nevertheless, the positive qualities far surpassed any negative ones.
First of all, Alice in Wonderland is quite different than its animated version. Instead of simply remaking the film, Tim Burton recreated the entire plot line. Alice is no longer a child but an adult on the verge of committing herself to an uneventful life. Her trip to “Underland” is fashioned in the same manner as the animated Alice’s, but new Alice faces new adventures. Tim Burton gives an exciting twist to Lewis Carroll’s original story.
The scenery and costumes are incredible throughout the film; by incorporating frightening and beautiful elements, Tim Burton definitely has a way of creating visually striking scenes. Radical costume changes give Alice a unique, high fashion look that could undoubtedly be pulled off in places other than “Underland.” Fashion critics would praise the Mad Hatter’s gorgeous array of hats. The style presented in the movie just may serve as the pinnacle for fashionistas around the globe.
Obviously, the acting in the film is of immense importance. Johnny Depp’s performance as the Mad Hatter is flawless, which should come as no surprise. Helena Bonham Carter executes her character, the Red Queen, with zest and attitude. Although there are no poor actors in the film, Depp and Carter’s strong acting skills definitely overshadow their co-stars’. Although a small part, Tim Burton’s Cheshire Cat adds dimension to the film through his unexpected recurrent appearances and disappearances. He graces viewers with his wide grin at the most opportune moments.
Despite Alice in Wonderland’s greatness, it would have been nice to see more interaction between a few of the original characters. The Dodo, for example – although he is shown in the film, he does not really have a speaking part. In the animated version, the Dodo had some funny things to say. It would be great for him to have a similar role in the new Alice in Wonderland.
Other than those small details, Alice in Wonderland is an amazing movie. Seeing it in 3-D enhances the experience overall; it sucks the viewer in as if he or she is right there with Alice all along the way.
