Warning: Contains possible spoilers for anyone not familiar with Lewis Carroll's book Alice Through the Looking Glass. (Are there such people?)
This is one of the best, if not THE best versions of Through the Looking Glass I've ever seen. Far truer to the story than most, it isn't the usual mish-mash of both books that so many portrayals are. It was, however, disappointing that so little of the book was included. Still one must take what one is given.
Visually beautiful, the scenery draws the viewer in. The film presents in a more dreamlike, even psychedelic, manner than the other versions. Much more in keeping with the book.
Well-acted by everyone involved, especially Kate Beckinsale (Alice) and Sean Phillips (Red Queen). The venerable actors Geoffry Palmer (White King), and Sir Ian Holm (White Knight) provide touching and amusing performances, and all provide splendid and new interpretations of their characters.
Speaking of the Red Queen, her costume, though a great departure from the standard interpretation was amazing, as were all the costumes. I especially liked the way Alice's clothing changed throughout, enhancing the surreal feel of the film.
One might wish to quibble with the choice of having Alice as the mother drifted off to sleep while reading the story to her daughter. But I find it a refreshing change and quite in keeping with the spirit of the book. As adults, who wouldn't like to re-live the wonder and amazement of being a 7-year-old first being introduced to Carroll's Wonderland.
All in all, a film worth seeing again, especially with older children.
This is one of the best, if not THE best versions of Through the Looking Glass I've ever seen. Far truer to the story than most, it isn't the usual mish-mash of both books that so many portrayals are. It was, however, disappointing that so little of the book was included. Still one must take what one is given.
Visually beautiful, the scenery draws the viewer in. The film presents in a more dreamlike, even psychedelic, manner than the other versions. Much more in keeping with the book.
Well-acted by everyone involved, especially Kate Beckinsale (Alice) and Sean Phillips (Red Queen). The venerable actors Geoffry Palmer (White King), and Sir Ian Holm (White Knight) provide touching and amusing performances, and all provide splendid and new interpretations of their characters.
Speaking of the Red Queen, her costume, though a great departure from the standard interpretation was amazing, as were all the costumes. I especially liked the way Alice's clothing changed throughout, enhancing the surreal feel of the film.
One might wish to quibble with the choice of having Alice as the mother drifted off to sleep while reading the story to her daughter. But I find it a refreshing change and quite in keeping with the spirit of the book. As adults, who wouldn't like to re-live the wonder and amazement of being a 7-year-old first being introduced to Carroll's Wonderland.
All in all, a film worth seeing again, especially with older children.