Toni Ortivez
The Paw Print
Among movies currently in theaters is “Alice in Wonderland,” a Tim Burton rendition of the classic story. Although it holds many of the same aspects of the animated version, Burton’s version differs in its storyline. This movie is available for viewing in the 3D format, is rated PG for action and violence as well as a smoking caterpillar, and opened March 5 of this year.
As with many of Burton’s films, the color in “Alice in Wonderland” was on the extreme end of the spectrum. It incorporated the use of reds and blacks to emphasize the terror and dread associated with the Red Queen, played by Helena Bonham Carter, as well as the whites and blues associated with the passive White Queen, played by Anne Hathaway. The color was further emphasized by the use of computer generated graphics for the enlarged head of the Red Queen as well as many of the other strange characters.
The film followed the general idea of “Alice in Wonderland” in which Alice, played by Mia Wasikowska, runs off and falls in a rabbit hole after being bombarded with a marriage proposal. She continues through the world of what is now deemed “Underland” with the various trials of size changing, characters questioning who she is, as well as an added bonus of more action. As part of the different plot, Alice has been chosen as a champion who will slay the Jabberwocky, ending the reign of the Red Queen. However, Alice refuses to believe this and continues through the trials and tribulations of Underland.
The change in plot is refreshing and because it isn’t the same as the animated version, it keeps the viewer interested. However, the use of 3D to push the movie along seems a bit much. The story and the action could have easily been understood and represented through 2D. The characters are not only colorful in terms of actual color, but they have a unique spark to them that makes them exceptionally interesting. Even the Mad Hatter, played by Johnny Depp, has his own flare that is immensely different than the animated version. The use of Depp, although not new for Burton, was still refreshing. The Mad Hatter was a character in its own right, and Depp created the air of being bonkers without going over the top.
Overall, “Alice in Wonderland” is a movie to see because of its new take on a classic, yet the addition of it being in 3D may turn some viewers away. The actors and actresses, however, do redeem the movie and keep the story going. The action is different for a movie of this sort which makes it worth watching. “Alice in Wonderland” may turn out to be a movie which the audience either hates because it isn’t like the animated version, or loves because it is a breath of fresh air for the classic. Either way, it is a movie that must be watched before reactions should be judged.
What’s Been Said…