Alice Through the Looking Glass

Our take

A visually dazzling adventure that balances whimsy with heart.

Alice Through the Looking Glass expands the world of Wonderland with a visually rich and imaginative adventure that places the concept of time at the center of its story. Rather than focusing only on fantasy and spectacle, the film explores themes such as regret, forgiveness, family relationships, and the desire to change the past. These themes give the story an emotional layer that goes beyond its colorful visuals. One of the film's strongest aspects is its production design. The vibrant landscapes, elaborate costumes, and creative visual effects successfully recreate the magical atmosphere that audiences expect from Wonderland. Every scene is filled with detail, making the film an engaging visual experience from beginning to end. The narrative places greater emphasis on the characters' personal histories, particularly the relationship between the Red Queen and the White Queen. By revealing the origins of their conflict, the film attempts to add depth and emotional complexity to characters who were previously defined mainly by their eccentric personalities. Alice also remains a strong central figure, representing curiosity, independence, and determination in a world driven by rules and expectations. However, the film occasionally struggles to balance its emotional ambitions with its visual spectacle. While the story introduces meaningful themes, some character arcs feel rushed, and certain emotional moments do not receive enough development to create a lasting impact. As a result, the visual elements often leave a stronger impression than the narrative itself. Overall, Alice Through the Looking Glass is an entertaining fantasy film that succeeds in delivering a powerful message about the value of time and the importance of accepting the past. Although it does not reach the same level of impact as its predecessor, it remains a visually captivating journey that combines imagination, emotion, and adventure in a uniquely whimsical way.

With a visual grammar built around negative space and carefully held close-ups, the film trusts the audience to notice what its characters cannot say. It is intimate filmmaking at an ambitious scale, and its final image lingers long after the credits.