Whimsical Worlds, Scene-Stealing Hatters, and Spectacular 3D Visuals.

Alice in Wonderland

Directed By: Tim Burton

Starring: Mia Wasikowska, Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter

Rated: PG

1 hrs. 48 min.

Tim Burton puts a new spin on the classic tale of a girl named Alice and her adventures in a whimsical world called Wonderland. In this updated version, Alice (Mia Wasikowska) falls through the rabbit hole to find the creatures there have been waiting for her arrival; she also comes to find that this isn't the first time she's been down the rabbit hole, either. Alice's return has been foretold, as she is the only one who can slay the Jabberwocky on Frabjous Day and return their world to the hands of the White Queen (Anne Hathaway).

Despite the story not being the exact same as the original, it's a pleasing and refreshing version of it. There are even references and characters that appear in the story written by Lewis Carrol, such as the Caterpillar (named Absolem here, and voiced by Alan Rickman). Alice in Wonderland even features the Jabberwocky as a major part of the plot line, despite being a creature from a separate poem by Carroll (although the song in Disney's version of Alice in Wonderland that the Cheshire Cat sung is the first verse of the poem).

The fantastical scenery of Wonderland is beautiful and impressive. One can see not only the vision of Carroll within the world, but Tim Burton's flair is prevalent as well. The 3D effects are spectacular as well, bringing the characters and the world alive wonderfully.

Wasikowska's portrayal of Alice is fresh, and she plays the now 19-year-old character with a mix of maturity and child-like curiosity. It is Johnny Depp's Mad Hatter that, as Depp seems to do so well, steals scenes. Flip flopping between a lisp-enhanced British accent in mostly light moments and an odd Scottish drawl in mostly serious and dark moments brilliantly expresses such an entrancing, and likable, madness. In fact, all of the actors' performances are stunning and unique.

Alice in Wonderland is a must see for old and young alike. Take the family, take a boyfriend or girlfriend, take your parents, or take your friends and try to catch this great film in 3D (multiple times, if possible).

Grade: A+