Alice in Wonderland

| 2010

Directed by: Tim Burton

Main Plot

In Tim Burton's adaptation of "Alice in Wonderland," the story follows a 19-year-old Alice who, straying from the expectations of her society, stumbles back into the whimsical world she visited as a child, though she has no memory of it. Upon her return, she discovers that Wonderland, now called Underland, is under the tyrannical rule of the Red Queen who wields power with a cruel and unpredictable temper. The creatures of Underland, who have long suffered under the Red Queen's reign, believe Alice is the prophesized savior who will restore their world to its former glory. Guided by the cryptic advice of the Cheshire Cat, and protected by the Mad Hatter, a loyal but eccentric ally, Alice embarks on a perilous journey to end the Red Queen's reign of terror. Throughout her adventure, she encounters various characters, some helpful and some hindering, and confronts numerous challenges that test her courage and resolve. The film culminates in a climactic battle that will determine the fate of Underland and reveal Alice's true destiny.

Characters

  • Mia Wasikowska plays Alice Kingsleigh, a young woman who returns to a whimsical world where she must end the Red Queen's reign of terror.
  • Johnny Depp plays the Mad Hatter, aiding Alice in her quest to overthrow the tyrannical Red Queen and restore the White Queen to power.
  • Helena Bonham Carter played the Red Queen, a tyrannical monarch whose reign Alice aims to end to restore the White Queen to power.

Ending Explained

In Tim Burton's "Alice in Wonderland," the film concludes with Alice Kingsleigh rejecting the constraints of Victorian society and embracing her newfound strength and independence. After defeating the Jabberwocky, thus fulfilling the prophecy and restoring the White Queen to power, Alice rejects a marriage proposal from Hamish, a decision that symbolizes her refusal to conform to societal expectations. She asserts her desire to live a life dictated by her own choices rather than the expectations imposed upon her. Alice then approaches Lord Ascot, using her experiences and the lessons she learned in Underland (Wonderland) to propose a new trade route to China. Her adventures in Wonderland have equipped her with the courage and insight to innovate and lead in the business world. Lord Ascot, impressed by her vision and assertiveness, agrees to make her his apprentice, setting her on a path to become a businesswoman. The film ends with Alice boarding a ship, looking out to the sea, symbolizing her journey towards new adventures and opportunities, fully embracing her independence and her potential to shape her own destiny. This conclusion underscores themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and breaking free from traditional roles.

Tim Burton Adventure Family Fantasy Mia Wasikowska Johnny Depp Helena Bonham Carter