Alice In Wonderland is similar to Avatar in many ways. It's directed by a visionary genius, it's another 3D extravaganza that's largely animated showcasing a spellbinding and elaborately realized fantasy world. There's also the usual mythological narrative of an 'chosen' outsider intervening in the well fair of an oppressed world. Which means its rich, intricate universe and ageless story is food for the eyeballs.
But Alice unfortunately shares some flaws with Cameron's blockbuster; a script that could be improved upon and a lead actor that, while adequate, didn't have to spend all of their onscreen time concentrating on an unfamiliar accent. Alice in Wonderland rambles somewhat, a trait that used to be present in Burton films of old, but has crept back in there with Alice. It's almost like many scenes were improvised, especially those involving the Mad Hatter, and they go on a bit too long with little focus or proper gags. The fact that this version of Alice In Wonderland isn't a direct adaptation of C.S Carroll's classic book, or it's follow up, Through The Looking Glass, but a combination of both re-imagined into a sequel story of sorts, doesn't bother me at all. I'm not familiar enough with the books, or the previous movie adaptations, to be prejudiced for or against this approach, except to say it reminds me of Spielberg's Hook, which is similarly structured. Mia Wasikowska isn't strong enough to convince of her journey from timid, daydreaming socialite to warrior, independent woman and business partner. Her Alice is supposed to unassuming and introverted but, like poor Sam Worthington, doesn't seem to be able to express or internalise the emotion required to a satisfying level.
Still, like Avatar, it's not enough to dampen a fun experience. The supporting cast are on top form, notably Helena Bonham Carter as the Red Queen (channelling Blackadder's Queenie), Paul Whitehouse as the March Hare (bonkers beyond words) and, of course, Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter. The Hatter is initially presented with a reserved, softly spoken English accent but is soon replaced by a rougher Scot's accent. I first thought I'd misheard Depp, but it turns out the actor uses both accents due to the Hatter being, well, mad!
The effects are top notch while Danny Elfman's score, his 14th collaborating with Burton, is his best since the early 2000's. The man seems to have dropped his distinctive orchestrations of late, and turned into another bland Hans Zimmer clone (Terminator Salvation, Hellboy II, Wanted) but here he produces an old fashioned score with no electronics, making it one of the best in his portfolio, and which raises the entertainment level several notches.
So, like Avatar, not the director's masterpiece but frustratingly the elements were here to achieve it. A sharper script and a better actress might have pulled this into classic status. However, as it stands, this is still one of the most entertaining and beautiful looking films you'll see this year.
