Alice in Wonderland (2010)
Synopsis:
Alice Kingsleigh, now a young woman of 19, finds herself returning to the extraordinary and whimsical world she first visited as a child. In this fantastical realm, she reunites with memorable characters including the eccentric Mad Hatter, the elegant White Queen, and the temperamental Red Queen, along with the mischievous Cheshire Cat and the wise Caterpillar. As Alice navigates through this curious land filled with peculiar inhabitants like Tweedledee and Tweedledum, she embarks on an adventure that will help her discover her true destiny and purpose. Directed by Tim Burton, this family-friendly fantasy reimagines the classic tale as Alice must find her place in both the magical world of Wonderland and her own reality, learning important lessons about courage, identity, and believing in the impossible along the way.
Where To Watch: Alice in Wonderland
Parental Feedback
Alice in Wonderland delivers a visually striking fantasy adventure with Tim Burton's signature gothic aesthetic, blending whimsical elements with darker, more intense imagery. Parents should expect a fast-paced journey through an imaginative world that balances lighthearted moments with some genuinely eerie sequences, including fantastical creatures and battle scenes. The film explores themes of identity, courage, and destiny as it follows a young woman navigating a surreal landscape filled with peculiar characters and challenging situations.
Why Kids Should Watch Alice in Wonderland
This fantasy adventure offers several valuable elements for young viewers to experience and enjoy.
The story centers on a strong protagonist who embarks on a journey of self-discovery, showing children the importance of finding their own path and believing in themselves. Alice's determination to discover her true destiny provides an empowering message about personal growth.
The imaginative world-building and creative character designs encourage children to embrace their own creativity and appreciate fantastical storytelling. The whimsical setting invites viewers to explore their imagination alongside the protagonist.
The ensemble cast brings beloved literary characters to life, including memorable performances that make classic figures like the Mad Hatter, Cheshire Cat, and White Queen accessible to a new generation. These interpretations offer entry points into classic literature.
The adventure genre elements provide excitement and entertainment while exploring themes of courage and standing up for what's right, giving children examples of bravery in the face of challenges.
Why Kids Shouldn't Watch Alice in Wonderland
Parents may want to consider several aspects before viewing with younger or more sensitive children.
Tim Burton's distinctive visual style includes dark and gothic imagery that may be unsettling for younger viewers, with some creature designs and atmospheric elements that lean toward the eerie rather than purely whimsical. The Red Queen's court and certain fantastical beings have an intimidating presence.
The film includes battle sequences and conflict scenes that involve fantasy violence, which could be intense for children who are sensitive to action or peril. The Knave of Hearts and various confrontations add tension throughout.
Some of the humor and dialogue may go over younger children's heads, as the story is geared toward a protagonist who is nineteen years old, making certain themes and situations more relatable to older children and teens than to very young viewers.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Alice in Wonderland earns approval for families with children aged 8 and up who can handle fantasy adventure with darker visual elements and appreciate stories about self-discovery and courage.
What Parents Should Know About Alice in Wonderland
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this Movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Yes, Alice demonstrates courage, self-discovery, and determination as she embarks on her journey to find her true destiny, providing a strong example of personal growth. |
| Does this Movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Yes, the film includes fantasy peril, battle sequences, and Tim Burton's characteristically dark visual style that may be intense for sensitive or younger viewers. |
| Does this Movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, the antagonistic characters face consequences for their actions, particularly the Red Queen and the Knave of Hearts, demonstrating that negative behavior has repercussions. |
| Does this Movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | Yes, Alice works alongside various characters including the White Queen and Mad Hatter, showing the value of collaboration and trusting others during challenging times. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | Yes, the central message focuses on discovering one's true destiny and having the courage to embrace your authentic self, even when faced with uncertainty or opposition. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Parents generally appreciate the imaginative storytelling and strong performances in Alice in Wonderland, particularly praising the visual creativity and the empowering message about self-discovery. Many families find it suitable for older elementary and middle school children who enjoy fantasy adventures, though some note that Tim Burton's darker aesthetic may not appeal to all viewers. The PG rating reflects fantasy action and some scary imagery, which parents of younger or more sensitive children should consider. Overall, families who appreciate visually distinctive fantasy films with themes of courage and identity tend to enjoy this whimsical yet gothic take on the classic story, finding it an entertaining adventure that sparks imagination while delivering meaningful messages about believing in oneself.
Official Alice in Wonderland Trailer
Why Kids Love Alice in Wonderland
The Cheshire Cat appears and disappears with a mischievous grin, floating through the air and leaving only his smile behind. Tweedledee and Tweedledum waddle around causing confusion with their identical looks and silly arguments. The caterpillar Absolem puffs smoke rings while offering cryptic riddles that Alice must decode.
Alice shrinks down to tiny size and grows enormous tall, changing her perspective on the entire colorful world around her. The Mad Hatter switches between wild energy and clever tricks, wearing his oversized top hat while helping Alice navigate through dangerous situations. When the Red Queen's guards chase after them, Alice and her unusual friends must think fast and use the strange rules of Wonderland to escape.
The White Queen floats gracefully through her bright castle, mixing potions with theatrical flair and exaggerated movements. Alice faces off against the fearsome Jabberwocky in an epic showdown that determines Wonderland's fate. She wields a magical sword while her animal friends cheer her on from below.
Every corner of this vibrant world bursts with bizarre creatures and impossible physics. Talking flowers gossip, playing cards march in formation, and nothing follows normal rules. Alice solves each strange puzzle by thinking differently than everyone expects.