Alice in Wonderland Review

Children, stoners, Burton fans, 3D lovers, and people who simply enjoy the timeless story can rejoice, because March 5^th marks the U.S. release of Alice in Wonderland. It is a classic story that is known by many people. The initial story was conceived by Lewis Carroll's tale that has inspired songs, other stories, books and of course a remake of the Disney cartoon version. The remake incorporates a certain familiar trio that consists of director Tim Burton, the vivacious Johnny Depp, and actress Helena Bonham Carter. They worked together in the 2005 animated film Corpse Bride, the violent Broadway-inspired Sweeney Todd, and the film which critics will most likely compare to Alice in Wonderland, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

The story begins with a 19-year-old Alice (Australia's own Mia Wasikowska) forced by her upper class aristocratic family into engagement falling down the rabbit hole to the colorful and magical "Underland". She learns that she must discontinue the Red Queen's (Helena Bonham Carter) terrible reign. New and familiar characters are introduced as the story progresses. The most notable of which are the Mad Hatter (Depp), the Red Queen, Stane (Crispin Glover) and the rarely seen White Queen played by Anne Hathaway. Carter's performance is probably the most memorable with the dark and humorous bits she provides. Danny Elfman's musical score sets a very mystical and dark tone. One problem is the end of the film has an Avril Lavigne pop song that kind of leaves the audience with a bad taste.
One piece of advice for those in anticipating of this film-don't go expecting a deep and complex story. Alice in Wonderland is a movie that should be admired for its breathtaking animation and acting. The movie is very funny and the 3D version is definitely recommended. The glasses are the same ones used for other 3D movies such as Avatar so if you are a fan of them, no worries, but if you aren't then it could be a slight problem. They have received some complaints on comfort but the visuals are worth it if the glasses don't bother you too much. I personally didn't see the IMAX version but it's supposed to be amazing. However you may choose to view the film it is sure to leave you wanting to book a trip to Underland for more.