Cast
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Kate Burton
as Alice
Eve Arden
as Queen of Hearts
Kaye Ballard
as Duchess
Richard Burton
as White Knight
James Coco
as King of Hearts
Tony Cummings
as Knave of Hearts
André De Shields
as Tweedledum
Colleen Dewhurst
as Red Queen
Andre Gregory
as Mad Hatter
Geoffrey Holder
as Cheshire Cat
Zeljko Ivanek
as March Hare
Nathan Lane
as Mouse
Donald O'Connor
as Mock Turtle
Austin Pendleton
as White Rabbit
Maureen Stapleton
as White Queen
Crew
Director
- Kirk Browning
Producer
- Ann Blumenthal
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Alice in Wonderland represents a fascinating example of Fantasy/Adventure/Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Kirk Browning brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1983, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Alice in Wonderland took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 89 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1983, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Alice in Wonderland shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike When Christmas Was Young, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Alice in Wonderland subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Landscape with Invisible Hand and Ronja the Robber's Daughter explore similar territory, Alice in Wonderland stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 3, 1983
- Runtime: 1h 29m
