"Alice in Wonderland," directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp, Mia Wasikowska, Helena Bonham Carter and Anne Hathaway, opened in theaters earlier this month, breaking box office records around the world.
Loosely based on Lewis Carol’s famous children’s story Alice in Wonderland, the movie tells the story of Alice Kingsleigh’s second visit to "Underland," to end a reign of terror instigated by the evil Red Queen.
The moment she sets foot in Underland, Alice learns of a prophecy saying that she will slay a monster named the Jabberwocky and reinstate the White Queen. Alice plays along, certain that the episode is merely a figment of her vivid imagination. It is only at the very end of the story that she–along with the audience–realizes that everything around her is real.
Because it is Alice’s second visit to Underland, some thirteen years after her first visit, events are different: additional creatures are added, such as Bandersnatch and the Jabberwocky.
Johnny Depp’s surreal portrayal of the Mad Hatter comes as the biggest surprise of all, with the Oscar nominee playing an eccentric with a kind heart who fights for his beliefs while remaining loyal to his queen.
The 3D experience adds to an already exhilarating story. Fantastic creatures float among the audience, who feel they have become part of the movie.
Twenty-year-old Australian Wasikowska gives a strong edge to Alice, who builds character and confidence as she delves deeper into Underland. Now a teenager, Alice develops a kind of fondness for the Hatter, who asks her “Why is it that you are always too small or too tall?”
Helena Bonham Carter also makes a strong impression in the role of the vicious Red Queen, unlike her white sister (Anne Hathaway), whose character comes across as superficial and dull.
Huge makeup and costume teams allowed Burton to realize his magical directorial vision, and special credit should be given to Patty York, Johnny Depp’s personal makeup artist. Watching the movie, you can’t help but wonder about the special and visual effects teams, who, according to IMDb, comprised more than three hundred specialists. They are definitely the knights behind this 3D delight.
The adventure movie is a must-see. It appeals to most age groups, and children will absolutely love it. Alice in Wonderland (3D) is currently showing in Stars Cinema and Galaxy. The standard LE25 ticket is increased to LE55 with the price of the 3D glasses.
