[yasr_overall_rating]
Alice returns to the whimsical world of Wonderland and travels back in time to save the Mad Hatter.
Walt Disney Pictures brings Alice back to the screen, with an exciting sequel that is more action-packed, suspenseful, and visually exciting than the first.
Sort of a modern-day retelling of “Back to the Future,” Alice jumps in her own Delorean, the “Chronosphere,” to travel back in time on a psychedelic trip and attempt to save the Mad Hatter’s family from a fire-breathing dragon that destroyed their future.
However, although “Wonderland” is a fantastical world of curiosities, imagination and make-believe happenings, the laws of time are kept in place and relate back with our normal world. The creators of the film keep a nice balance between dreams and reality, and as the Mad Hatter says, “who’s to say which is which?”
The visuals are no doubt breathtaking, and every second of screen time is beautifully portrayed on screen. But, I’d claim that the visuals are what holds up the film. The plot itself seemed weak and didn’t quite capture the heart of the viewer, which to me, is always Disney’s strength. I was admiring the painting, but didn’t really want to jump inside. But overall, looking at it from the big picture, it’s a really fun and exhilarating film from start to finish, with great suspense, new characters and again, astonishing visuals in every scene.
So, it lacks heart but it does portray a lot of beautiful messages. The writers took a smart route by focusing on character backstory. We learn how the queen’s head got to be so large, we learn about the Mad Hatter’s past and even get a glimpse into Alice’s world, her family, and see her stand up to reclaim her destiny. Messages of the power of unity in family is really strong, and as “time” is the basis of the story, there were some subtle but convicting messages about learning from the past and allowing it to shape your future.
Time himself, yes, it’s a he, is portrayed by the comedic genius Sacha Baron Cohen, and he no doubt will bring a smile to your face as well as a quiver to your lip. He’s hilariously scary, and not surprisingly, he weighs a nice balance of comedy and horror, which is the mark of a great actor, I think, and a fun one to watch. Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter brings another great performance to the screen, and he’s a bit more horrifying in this one than the last. And Helen Bonham Carter never fails to bring a unique twist to the story.
So if you’re expecting a story that captures your heart, you’ll be disappointed. But if you’re looking for a fun film to sit back and admire, or a mind-bending trip of crazy colors, fun characters, and a few positive messages to warm your heart, Alice is your girl, and this movie is worth the ride.
Available on Blu-ray, DVD & Digital HD October 18th
