Film Review: ALICE IN WONDERLAND
starring Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Mia Wasikowska, Anne Hathaway, Crispin Glover, Michael Sheen, Alan Rickman
directed by Tim Burton
3D is all the rage these days and studios are turning to the most cutting edge technology and embracing the fad in efforts to try and bank themselves the next Avatar. While most movie-watchers don't really focus on the plot of a project when they cough up the cash to be visually dazzled, a lot of people who do care are debating whether or not anyone is paying much attention to telling a good story when they know the 3D appeal is what is going to drive the consumer. Personally, I sit somewhere in the middle. I adored Avatar because I was not only wide-eyed with excitement but very enthralled in the writing and storytelling. But I've also gone to see a not-so plot-driven piece like My Bloody Valentine, just to be entertained. Burton's adaptation of one of our most popular pieces of fiction is going to live up to its hype when it comes to glittering effects, vivacious colors and stellar production value. When it comes to storytelling, the film is lacking, adding to the theory that when there's plenty of eye candy - you can slack off with the unfolding of plot and attention to detail. I suppose I was a bit disappointed that I wasn't swept up in the fairy tale of Alice and am a bit harsher with my critique for the fact that this is a story that's been translated repeatedly. It's a classic story that we know and love, so that should've been the easy part! Will the visuals distract you from the way Burton decided to unveil the series of events? Of course. Is it worth checking out in the theater in 3D? Of course. You'll have a bunch of fun, watch Johnny Depp do what he does so often I can barely distinguish whether he's being Jack Sparrow or Sweeney Todd or Willy Wonka or the Mad Hatter... and you will leave the theater satisfied. Helena, on the other hand, is exceptionally fantastic as the Queen of Hearts. As a critic, I wanted more. As an audience member, I was satisfied and definitely thought it was a fun experience.
My Grade: B
