Directed by:
Nick WillingScreenplay:
Peter BarnesCinematography:
Giles NuttgensComposer:
Richard HartleyCast:
Tina Majorino, Robbie Coltrane, Whoopi Goldberg, Ben Kingsley, Christopher Lloyd, Pete Postlethwaite, Miranda Richardson, Martin Short, Peter Ustinov (more)Plots(1)
When young Alice (Tina Majorino, Grey's Anatomy) chases the White Rabbit down his rabbit-hole her life is thrust into a whirlwind of surprises as she ventures forth into one of the most fantastical tales of all time. Her journey into Wonderland leads Alice to encounter a multitude of intriguing characters and creatures - including the delightful Cheshire Cat (Whoopi Goldberg), the rather rotund Tweedledum (Robbie Coltrane) and Tweedledee (George Wendt), a very rude caterpillar (Ben Kingsley), a Mock Turtle (Gene Wilder) and a Walrus (Peter Ustinov). From the absurd experiences at the Mad Hatter's (Martin Short) tea party to her wild croquet game with the Queen Of Hearts (Miranda Richardson), Alice's remarkable journey is filled with visual delights and clever word-play, destined to linger in the imagination long after the spinning has stopped. (Umbrella Entertainment)
(more)Reviews (2)
I haven't read the book (from the film adaptations I know only Švankmajer's magical Alice), so I don't know to what extent the filmmakers stuck to it, but some scenes make this film a decent watchable affair. Given the smaller budget, the effects and make-up are occasionally passable, and I'd single out the superbly costumed Martin Short with his digitally altered short body and the grinning Whoopi Goldberg-faced cat. Pretty decent average for a TV movie.
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Alice in Wonderland is one of the better Hallmark projects. There are many criticisms to be made, but it still keeps a certain level. This adaptation manages to impress at first glance, especially with its well-chosen cast, who, though mostly just cameos, still pleased me – I loved the performances of Elizabeth Spriggs, Martin Short, Gene Wilder and (as always) Miranda Richardson. Tina Majorino also took the lead role very well, and like many, I enjoyed Whoopi Goldberg’s role. I didn't mind too much that there were visible TV effects, as it made the whole thing seem more playful to the point of being goofy, which only highlighted the wonderfully wacky Wonderland, full of bizarre and crazy characters who are constantly screaming, falling down, sleeping, drinking tea, chopping heads off, etc. All in all, it's a pretty decent adaptation that still manages to appeal today, especially thanks to the actors, sets and catchy songs.
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