AMERICAN MCGEE'S ALICE Coming to TV

Radar Pictures has secured the television rights to American McGee's Alice, the acclaimed third-person action adventure game based on Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass published by Electronic Artists (EA). The drama series will be developed as the first adaptation of American McGee's Alice franchise, Alice, and its 2011 sequel Alice: Madness Returns. 

As active development on the series begins, McGee beamed: “David Hayter brings imagination, experience, and stealth sneaking skills gained through successful missions in film, TV, and video games - a unique combination sure to make this adventure into Wonderland a successful one for the franchise and the fans. I am excited to be working with him and know the Alice fans will welcome him with mad affection."

Alice in Wonderland by Mary Blair Limited Edition Doll

In celebration of Alice in Wonderland’s 70th Anniversary, we are thrilled to share the launch of the all-new Alice in Wonderland by Mary Blair Limited Edition Doll, available on shopDisney beginning today for pre-order. The 16 1/2'' doll features the whimsical and exquisite designs of renowned artist, Mary Blair, recognized as one of the first Disney female artists and one of the most brilliant conceptual designers to date.

“Alice in Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass” Kicks Off Production

Disney’s “Alice In Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass” begins principal photography this week, featuring an award-winning production team and all-star ensemble cast, including Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway, Mia Wasikowska, Helena Bonham Carter and Sacha Baron Cohen. James Bobin (“The Muppets,” “Muppets Most Wanted”) helms the film, which revisits Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories with an all-new new tale that travels back to Underland—and back in Time. “Alice In Wonderland: Through the Looking Glass” is produced by Joe Roth (“Maleficent,” “Alice in Wonderland”), Jennifer Todd (“Alice In Wonderland,” “Memento”), Suzanne Todd (“Alice In Wonderland,” “Memento”) and Tim Burton (“Alice in Wonderland,” “Frankenweenie”). John G. Scotti (“Muppets Most Wanted,” “The Muppets”) is the executive producer; Linda Woolverton (“Maleficent,” “Alice In Wonderland,” “Beauty and the Beast”) penned the screenplay. Shooting on location and at Shepperton Studios in England, the film is slated for release on May 27, 2016. 

Slice Up Wonderland in Alice: Madness Returns

So you've been watching the trailers of Sucker Punch and thinking DAMN..I wonder why more people don't make more of ANYTHING with pretty girls slicing giants to bits with samurai swords, shooting up entire cities with gatling guns and blowing up scores of robots leaving nothing but scorched earth in their wake. Electronic Arts hears you and shares your love of the classic femme fatale...emphasis on the Fatal. Welcome to Alice: Madness Returns!

Eleven years ago a horrific fire took Alice’s family from her and left her terribly burned—and her mind terribly scarred. Afterwards she was confined to Rutledge Asylum, struggling to come to terms with her demons by slipping into her fantasy world of Wonderland. Now, after ten years, she has finally secured her release--yet she still bears the heavy psychological burden of that tragic event.


Alice: Madness Returns Gameplay Trailer
Uploaded by Nomadixxx. - Click for more console and PC gaming videos.

In Alice: Madness Returns, Alice is released from the asylum to a London psychiatrist’s care. As nightmarish hallucinations continue to haunt her and invade her reality, she seeks to understand her torment in order to recover herself. Her mind in tatters, she is unable to resolve the fear and neuroses prompted by her strange memories, dreams, and visions. Her relocation to London seems only to add to their number and intensity.

Perhaps she’ll do better in Wonderland. She always has. She travels there, seeking what the “real” world can’t provide: security, knowledge, and the truth about the past. But in her absence, Wonderland too has suffered. Something has gone horribly wrong, and now a great evil is descending upon what once was her beautiful refuge.

Can Alice save Wonderland—and herself—from the madness that consumes them both?

..and yes, this is the long awaited sequel to American McGee's Alice, so you go ahead and cheer now! June 14th is the release date. Be ready.

Tonner Doll Company Gets a Jump on Toy Fair 2011

With 2 weeks til NY Toy Fair 2011, news is sliding in from all points as companies hope to harness the power of the GEEK BUZZ to make them stars of the show. So far, its working! Now the Tonner Doll Company throws their tiny doll hat into the ring with some advance images and info for their 2011 toy lines. Here's the skinny...

Cami&Jon™ Collection : This collection will be MADE TO ORDER and there will only be one production run. We have a limited number available for our Tonner Direct and Tonner Company Store customers so RESERVE YOURS. Call Tonner Direct at 1-800-794-2107 or the Tonner Company Store at 845-339-2960 to RESERVE YOURS NOW! Make sure you don’t miss out! This line includes...

- Cami wigged basic featuring inset eyes wearing a jersey two-piece lounging set. Strappy faux-leather shoes and additional blonde wig also included. (She'll come wearing the cropped wig.) Cami Head Sculpt and 16" Antoinette™ Body; Blue Inset Eyes and Cameo Skin tone
- Cami basic redhead wears a jersey two-piece lounging set. Cami Head Sculpt and 16" Antoinette™ Body; Hazel Eyes and Cameo Skin tone, rooted hair
- Jonquil basic brunette wears a jersey two-piece lounging set. Jonquil Head Sculpt and 16" Antoinette™ Body; Brown Eyes and Honey Skin tone, rooted hair
- Cami basic brunette wears a jersey two-piece lounging set. Cami Head Sculpt and 16" Antoinette™ Body; Hazel Eyes and Cameo Skin tone
- Outfits include Play on Words and City Nights
- Wigs include West Side Red Wig, West Side Brunette Wig and SoHo Wig
More at http://www.tonnerdoll.com/cami_jon.htm

Clash of the Titans: IO - Cursed and ageless, IO aides PERSEUS in his quest to defeat MEDUSA. This mysterious protagonist comes dressed in an
asymmetrical dress and faux-leather corset, under a distressed cape with faux-fur trim. Faux-leather bracer, pantyhose, and intricate faux-leather sandals also included. Gemma Arterton/IO Head Sculpt and 16" Convertible Foot Body; Brown Eyes w/ Blended Brunette Hair and Cameo Skin tone
More at http://www.tonnerdoll.com/clashtitans.htm

The DeeAnna Denton™ Collection: DeeAnna is app. 17" tall with a curvaceously athletic body, crafted in fine vinyl/hard plastic with rooted saran hair, hand-detailed painted eyes, and she has an extensive, stylish wardrobe. Note: DeeAnna's 17" body is comparable to the Lara Croft™ athletic body; however, DeeAnna has high-heel feet; also her face features a new sculpt.
Bye-Bye Baby - The alluring chewing gum heiress struts her stuff in a scintillating velvet dress with soft chiffon shirring, smartly accessorized with pointed-toe pumps, rhinestone earrings, necklace, and bracelet. DeeAnna Denton™ Head Sculpt and 17" High-Heeled Female Athletic Body; Brown Eyes w/ Blonde Hair and Bloom Skin tone.
More at http://www.tonnerdoll.com/ddenton.htm

Disney Princess: Rapunzel - Get tangled in magic! From Disney's whimsical film Tangled comes RAPUNZEL, dressed in a custom-printed satin blouse with lace trim and lace-up detail, paired with a matching custom-printed satin skirt. Matching ballet slippers also included. Rapunzel Head Sculpt and 16" Flat-Foot Ellowyne Wilde™ Body (thank you Wilde Imagination® for sharing); Green Eyes w/ Blonde Wigged Hair and Bloom Skin tone.
More at http://www.tonnerdoll.com/disneyprincess.htm

Gone With The Wind:
Strength from Tara - As she strolls across the greens of TARA, SCARLETT™ wears a voluminous organza gown and a striking green vest. Petticoat, panties, socks, and molded shoes also included. Tonner 8" head and body; Green Inset Eyes w/ Brunette Wigged Hair. Stand not included.
Mrs. Charles Hamilton - SCARLETT™ tries to stifle her elation at having brought in a royal sum of money from CAPTAIN BUTLER for a dance at the
bazaar. The recent widow glides across the floor in a voluminous black mourning gown, ample petticoat, pantyhose, faux-leather pumps, short gloves, and veiled hat.
Vivien Leigh/Scarlett O'Hara™ Head Sculpt and 16" Tyler BW Body; Green Eyes w/ Brunette Hair and Bloom Skin tone
More at http://www.tonnerdoll.com/gwtw.htm

"Gowns by Anne Harper" Collection: Robert Tonner presents a touch of old Hollywood through the eyes of studio designer, Anne Harper. Such great stars of the late 1940's such as Carol Barrie, Patricia Holt and many others pine for Anne's attentions...
Red, White, and YOU! - Carol Barrie proudly displays her patriotism in Red, White, and YOU! This striking ensemble includes a fitted two-toned dress with accent pockets, under a matching jacket with contrasting wide lapels and cuffs. Gloves, beaded earrings, necklace, sailor-style hat, pantyhose, and faux-leather sling-backs with bow trim also included. Carol Barrie Head Sculpt and 16" Tyler BW Body; Blue Eyes w/ Brunette Hair and Cameo Skin tone
Diane Evans – Diane Evans is the film mogul's latest up-and-coming contract player! This rising star mingles with Hollywood's elite in a luscious cocktail dress with shimmering sequined bodice, ruffled tiers, and faux-flower trim. Gloves, rhinestone
earrings, bracelet, pantyhose, faux-leather sling-backs, and faux-flower hair ornament also included. Friday Foster™ Head Sculpt and 16" Tyler BW Body; Brown Eyes w/ Raven Hair and Honey Skin tone
James Collins – From swashbuckling pirate to southern gentlemen, James Collins breathes vitality into every leading role he performs! The dashing actor comes dressed in a masterfully tailored suit with a crisp oxford shirt and printed tie. Socks,
molded shoes, and hat also included. James Collins Head Sculpt and 17" Matt O'Neill™ Body; Brown Eyes w/ Raven Hair and Tan Skin tone
Merli Stimple – Merli Stimple has won the hearts of movie-goers worldwide! Little do they know this little starlet isn't quite as sweet as she appears on screen! Merli Stimple comes dressed in a frothy dress with rows of ruffles and dainty flower
trimmed bows, petticoat, panties, socks, and faux-leather shoes. Merli Stimple Head Sculpt and 8.5" Kripplebush Kids Body; Blue Eyes w/ Brunette Hair and Pale Skin tone. Stand not included.
More at http://www.tonnerdoll.com/aharper.htm

Harry Potter: 12" HERMIONE GRANGER™ - HERMIONE GRANGER™ comes in her unmistakable HOGWARTS™ uniform, and features a brand new, highly- articulated body with a specially sculpted hand to hold her wand.
Hermione Granger™ Head Sculpt and New 12" Child Body; Brown Eyes w/ Light Brunette Wigged Hair and Bloom Skin tone
More at http://www.tonnerdoll.com/harrypotter.htm

Hollywood Glamour Collection:
Devil in White – Joan Crawford™ is an elegant seductress in a sleek satin gown and luxurious faux fur trimmed capelet, adorned with a lavish rhinestone brooch. Rhinestone bracelet, pantyhose, and faux-leather shoes also included. Joan Crawford™ Head Sculpt and 16" Tyler BW Body; Blue Eyes w/ Raven Hair and Bloom Skin tone
Stardust – Bette Davis™, shining star of stage and screen, commands the attention of all around her in Stardust. The glamorous starlet comes clothed in a shimmering gown with matching braided trim, gleaming beaded bracelet, pantyhose, and T-strap
high-heeled shoes. Bette Davis™ Head Sculpt and 16" Tyler BW Body; Blue Eyes w/ Platinum Hair and Bloom Skin tone
Hearts Ablaze – Screen legend Ava Gardner™ is sure to set Hearts Ablaze in a radiant red dress of sumptuous lace and frothy tulle. Her dainty waist is cinched in with a satin belt and sparkling rhinestone buckle. Rhinestone earrings, bracelet, pantyhose, and faux-leather pumps also included. Ava Gardner™ Head Sculpt and 16" Tyler BW Body; Green Eyes w/ Brunette Hair and Bloom Skin tone
More at http://www.tonnerdoll.com/hollywood.htm

MISS PIGGY Collection: Fashion doll creator and aficionado Robert Tonner, crosses new boundaries with his multi-jointed all strung vinyl inspired fashion diva, Miss Piggy. Our beloved piggy stands app. 16" tall with custom-made, changeable wigs and painted facial features. Miss Piggy cannot (and will not) share clothing with other pigs.
WILD FROGS – KERMIT THE FROG gets in touch with his wild side as a member of the WILD FROGS. The daring amphibian comes dressed in
faux-leather jacket with stud detailing. The back of the jacket features the WILD FROGS logo. KERMIT THE FROG Head and Body Sculpts Stand not included.
Hog Wild – Everyone's going Hog Wild for MISS PIGGY! This fierce biker-pig comes dressed in a gleaming faux-leather pant suit with faux-fur collar and cuffs over a shimmering knit bodysuit. Matching hat, faux-pearl necklace, gloves with ring
detail, and faux-leather zip-up boots also included. 16" MISS PIGGY Head and Body Sculpts; Blue Eyes, Blonde Wigged Hair - stand not included.
More at http://www.tonnerdoll.com/misspiggy.htm

Monica Merrill™ Collection: It’s the early sixties and Monica Merrill™ is on the rise in her secretarial pool demonstrating a clever nature that puts her ahead of the other girls. With a witty disposition, she can charm her way through almost any situation; but it’s her naïveté that can spell trouble! Monica Merrill™ is app. 16" tall and she is crafted in fine vinyl and hard plastic with inset acrylic eyes and hand-painted facial features; she is available in both wigged and rooted hair styles. Monica shares the same body sculpt as such 16" Tonner dolls as Tyler Wentworth® - she has the 16" Tyler regular bust articulated body with bending wrists and convertible fashion feet - she can share clothing and accessories with like dolls.
Monica Merrill™ Wigged Basic – 2011 Monica Merrill™ Wigged Basic comes dressed in her essential pink slip with delicate lace trim, matching panties, and molded shoes. Monica Merrill™ Head Sculpt and 16" Tyler BW Body; Violet Inset Eyes w/ Blonde Wigged Hair and Bloom Skin tone
Evening Twirl – Monica enjoys an evening in Manhattan, sipping champagne and twirling on the dance floor! Her eye-catching ensemble includes a curve-hugging dress with a rhinestone-trimmed bow across the bust and contrast lined peplum. Accessorized with sleek opera-length gloves, a matching belt with rhinestone buckle, and pointed-toe pumps. Rhinestone earrings, bracelet, necklace, and pantyhose also included. Monica Merrill™ Head Sculpt and 16" Tyler BW Body; Blue Inset Eyes w/ Platinum Hair and Bloom Skin tone
More at http://www.tonnerdoll.com/monicamerrill.htm

Prince of Persia: Princess in Disguise – The fugitives DASTAN and TAMINA, must disguise themselves in order to get close enough to DASTAN's uncle, NIZAM. Disguised as a slave girl, the princess dons a richly beaded top with flowing chiffon drapes and equally ornate harem pants. Gilded crown, SANDS OF TIME necklace, and slippers also included.
Gemma Arterton/Tamina Head Sculpt and 16" Convertible Foot Body; Brown Eyes w/ Brunette Hair and Tan Skin tone
More at http://www.tonnerdoll.com/ppersia.htm

Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland Character Figure™ Collection:
UM FROM UMBRIDGE – The apprehensive Alice masquerades herself as UM FROM UMBRIDGE, to protect herself from the malicious Red Queen. This meticulously detailed costume consists of an extravagant dress with layered tiers of tulle and custom printed chiffon overlay. Her arm is bandaged with a matching ribbon trimmed wrap, while her slender waist is wrapped in a tasseled belt. Pantyhose and shoes also included. Mia Wasikowska Head Sculpt and 22" American Model™ Body; Brown Eyes w/ Blonde Hair and Pale Skin tone
Tea Party Crasher – Alice hides in the Mad Hatter's tea pot, after receiving a custom-made dress for her new tiny size. The Tea Party Crasher comes in a chiffon dress with fine lace trim, ribbons around the bodice, and perfectly coordinated fabric
flower. Matching ribbon bandage, pantyhose, and ribbon shoes also included.
Mia Wasikowska Head Sculpt and 10" Tiny Kitty Collier™ Body; Brown Eyes w/ Blonde Hair and Pale Skin tone
FUTTERWACKEN – To celebrate the end of the Red Queen's villainous reign, TARRANT sees fit to perform the FUTTERWACKEN dance! The brave hatter's battle garb consists of a dickie under a gold trimmed vest, plaid kilt with tasseled belt, striped stockings, custom-printed necktie, intricately trimmed jacket, resin "spool" bandolier, faux-leather boots, and signature hat Johnny Depp Head Sculpt and 17" Matt O'Neill™ Body; Green Eyes w/ Red Wigged Hair and Lily Skin tone
TWEEDLE DEE AND TWEEDLE DUM - The curious TWEEDLE DEE AND TWEEDLE DUM have become the Red Queen's latest form of entertainment. Each resin TWEEDLE comes dressed in a striped knit top with black pants held up with red suspenders. Approximately 8 1/2". Their socks and shoes are hand-painted. Matt Lucas Head Sculpts w/ Brown Eyes and 5 Points-of-Articulation
Voyage of Wonder – Now that the battle is over, Alice seeks to discover the wonders of her own world. She sets sail in soft chiffon blouse with a printed tie under a patterned vest and tiered rick-rack skirt. A finely tailored coat, mesh fingerless gloves, pantyhose, and faux-leather lace-up boots also included. Mia Wasikowska Head Sculpt and 16" Ballerina Bust Tyler BW Body; Brown Eyes w/ Blonde Hair and Pale Skin tone
More at http://www.tonnerdoll.com/burtonsalice.htm

Vampire Diaries Collection: DAMON SALVATORE – The smoldering DAMON SALVATORE debuts as Tonner®'s first VAMPIRE DIARIES™ TCF™! The conniving vampire sports a jersey t-shirt and dark denim jeans with a faux-leather jacket. Socks, faux-leather zip-up boots, and protection ring also included. Ian Somerhalder/Damon Salvatore Head Sculpt and 17" Matt O'Neill™ Body; Blue Eyes w/ Brunette Wigged Hair and Cameo Skin tone

You also get a sneak preview of the DC Stars Starfire Doll! Enjoyyyy.
(and now back to the manly Thundercat news network.)

SDCC 2010 Previews Exclusives

The boys who hold a strangle hold on your local comic shops seem to be cooking up their own San Diego Comic Con Exclusives this year (which may or may not be in addition to Diamond Select's offerings, since they are technically a separate entity.) Here's the lineup...

DOCTOR SOLAR MAN OF ATOM #1 EXCLUSIVE KOMARCK VARIANT COVER 2010 SDCC VERSION
Exclusive SDCC alternate cover by Michael Kormarck! Empowered by a thermonuclear catastrophe, Doctor Solar discovers that he can control energy… immeasurable strength is his at a whim. Power beyond imagining courses through his body. But he knows that the same kind of science run amok that created him can also empower the wicked.
LIMITED TO 2,000 COPIES. - $3.50

STEVE ROGERS SUPER-SOLDIER #1 SKETCH VARIANT 2010 SDCC VERSION
Sketch variant cover! From multiple award-winning Captain America scribe Ed Brubaker and acclaimed artist Dale Eaglesham comes a mini-series no Cap or Avengers fan will want to miss!
LIMITED TO 3,000 COPIES. - $3.99

TRUE BLOOD #1 RETAILER EXCLUSIVE 2010 SDCC EDITION
Exclusive SDCC alternate cover! Bon Temps, Louisiana has never been stranger, or more twisted, in a story co-plotted by True Blood series creator Alan Ball, with a script by David Tischman (Bite Club) and Mariah Huehner, and lush art by David Messina (Star Trek: Countdown). Bonus inside every issue: an exclusive pullout gatefold poster by David Messina!
LIMITED TO 2,000 COPIES. - $3.99

SDCC 2010 WALKING DEAD #75 RETAILER EXCLUSIVE EDITION
Exclusive SDCC alternate cover! Lines are crossed, rules are broken and the peace and tranquility of the community is shattered. After months of safety and security, are Rick and the crew prepared for what they now face? This issue is not to be missed!
LIMITED TO 3,000 COPIES. - $3.99

TRON BEARBRICK 2010 SDCC VERSION
A Japanese import! Medicom celebrates Comic-Con International with a true fan release. The Tron Be@rbrick harkens back to the original 1981 Tron release by Tomy. Even the blister packaging has been respectfully revised to resemble that of the original release. This is only available to fans at SDCC!
LIMITED TO 1,500 PIECES. - TBA

MARVEL MINIMATES 90S BOX SET 2010 SDCC VERSION
While the X-Men had long been a cornerstone of the Marvel Universe and Wolverine had already become a fan favorite, they were never more popular than in the early '90s. This box set goes a long way toward completing fans’ Minimates collections of the '90s era X-Men. Combine the debut of Jubilee with the presence of new looks for fan favorites Magneto (his purple M outfit) and Wolverine (full battle damage) and a brand new Bishop, and you've got a set that might just be a fan’s dream come true.
LIMITED TO 2,000 PIECES. - $16.99

ALICE ULTIMATE DETAIL FIGURE CHESS PIECE 2010 SDCC VERSION
MAD HATTER ULTIMATE DETAIL FIGURE CHESS PIECE 2010 SDCC VERSION
A Japanese import! Fans turned out in droves for the release of Disney’s Alice in Wonderland directed by Tim Burton. Now collectors have two more reasons to come to San Diego Comic-Con, as Medicom releases a pair of variants from their widely successful Alice UDF release! This “chess set” variant re-imagines Johnny Depp’s Mad Hatter and Mia Wasikowska’s Alice as chess pieces.
LIMITED TO 1,500 PIECES EACH. - $19.99 each

FEMME FATALES WHITE TAROT PVC STATUE 2010 SDCC VERSION
Continuing the exciting new line of seductive vinyl statues featuring the most alluring Femme Fatales of modern comics' history, DST and Broadsword present this “Silver Goddess” variant of Jim Balent's own Witch of the Black Rose - Tarot! Standing over 8" tall, this limited edition version of the Sam Greenwell sculpt showcases the magical beauty as she appeared in issue #11 after retrieving the Sword of the Black Rose!
LIMITED TO 750 PIECES. - $39.99

Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland Review

We all know the tale of Alice in Wonderland. A little girl goes down a rabbit hole and comes out in a fantastical pastel world where animals talk, cats appear like smoke, the Red Queen is fond of taking heads and above all else, madness reigns supreme. This story has been animated, twisted, put to song by Carol Channing and now, Tim Burtonized. Though I am a fan of Nightmare Before Christmas and all things Tim, it wasn't his telling of this story that had me excited. Just the chance of seeing the charmingly surrealistic world of wonderland made real with the latest technology and leaping into our laps via the mystical powers of Disney 3D had me eagerly waiting from day 1. What could go wrong?

Alice has been having nightmares of the sleeping variety, and not to be confused with those conjured at the thought of marriage with the constipated looking young man of her family's choosing. Luckily escape is just a rabbit hole away, so down she goes, unaware that this should all be eerily familiar. Alice enthusiasts will delight to the familiar as our heroine partakes in her first growing tea cake and shrinking potion...the Bandersnatch..the Red Queen's croqet game..etc etc. These moments seem as mere formality as they come and go like the wind. Introduction to most of Wonderland's morose faces fly past in much the same manor and with little fan fare. Alice has already met them, and those who have done their reading can identify each player, so it seems Burton dispenses with any exorbitant movie magic in favor of a loveless and somewhat drab but swiftly moving story. Slight pauses with the ethereal Cheshire Cat and one irate little mouse are wedged between the bulk of the tale told with a schizophrenic Hatter Depp and the large headed queen. So much attention is given to the pair, the film may have been better served by exploring their journey from happier times to cataclysm so that we may relish in the triumph of good and the lost desperation of mindless, selfish evil. Instead, we must follow a befuddled Alice as she begrudgingly agrees to help her “new” fanciful friends and moans about it in most every scene.

It seems the film makers couldn’t decide who Alice in Wonderland was for. Had they went with a children’s tale, Alice would be full of bright colors, hysterical moments, wild tangents and more then a few AWWW inducing images. With a darker telling, more true to Tim Burton’s style and seeking an older audience, all you’d need do is take the original theme and amp up the creepy already present until you are a bit uncomfortable sitting before the Hatter, Cat and Queen. Alice in Wonderland seems to split the difference, wildly diverging from child brain scarring imagery to moments so ridiculously kid-targeted, had they happened at the beginning of the movie, you may have walked out (and trust me when I say, you’ll know this moment when you see it. Build up your gag reflex in advance.) Even Jar Jar would blush. So, you’ve got all the original characters people know and love, acting much as they should but playing against a landscape raked by the tyranny of the Red Queen. Basically, it’s a post traumatic Wonderland…and that’s not so wonderful. It’s like taking the Toy Story gang and dropping them into the scorched earth of Mad Max’s universe (which admittedly is awesome, but you get the idea.) Where’s the fun?! Where’s the pursuit, even? Alice seems able to dance between two warring kingdoms with nary an obstacle in 5 minutes flat. Never has the phrase “off with her head” been any less menacing.

I’m indifferent about the acting performances of Alice, as I’m 100% sure those involved were doing exactly what Tim Burton wanted. Johnny Depp’s Hatter swings between a foppish lispy tone and heavy, angry Scottish growl from one moment to the next, enhancing the notion that he’s truly been driven mad…as if we needed more proof. We were actually struggling to understand him on more than one occasion. Helena Bonham Carter is fully believable as the Red Queen with the plus-sized noggin and has moments that might make you chuckle, but it is a one note performance that doesn’t show any depth until the very last moments of the film. Mia Wasikowska (Mike Kakowski?) doesn’t seem very flustered when standing before the creatures of her nightmares. She also doesn’t seem happy, angry, frustrated or upset. She just sort of stands there looking paler than Robert Smith on a Saturday night and behaving (as the film would mention repeatedly) very un-Alice like. I’ve also got to take time to mention Anne Hathaway who flitters about, strapped into a dress erasing any semblance of her womanhood and with makeup spackled to her pretty face in such a manor as to make her eerily resemble Lisa Marie. So…we’ve got the current girlfriend as the Red Queen and a mirror image of Burton’s ex as the White Queen and they are at war. Hmm. Creepy. You’ll also see Crispin Glover fight to contain himself in an awkward, gumby like CGI body alongside the voices of Alan Rickman as the Blue Caterpillar and Christopher Lee as the Jabberwocky, both which may as well not have been in the movie as their fantastic vocals lend nothing to the fleeting moments you get with these characters.

Cinematography is a moot point when you are forced to spend time in a wonderland of bramble bushes, shady (but not dark) forests and the site of a famous tea party where the crockery has been smashed. The warring sensibilities of creating a film light enough for kids and dark enough to still be Tim Burtonesque are ever present in every mood that is just missed. There also seems to be a time factor in play, as there probably should have been a half hour to 45 minutes more movie to tell the tale properly, putting the film out of reach of distracted kiddie attention spans. I’d go so far as to say I was given more time to enjoy the scenery in my walk through of the sets, props and clothing at San Diego Comic Con! Did you know the White Queen’s castle was designed from chess pieces? No..you wouldn’t…as you barely see the place! Seems a waste to take us to a place called Wonderland and then rush us through as if the park were closing in 20 minutes.

Alice in Wonderland is all promotion and no party. The standees at your local movie theater strike a happier tone than the whole of this film. I’ve often complained that new animated projects seem to be getting more morose with every release, making me long for the day when you could turn on a Disney movie and just smile the entire time. Alice is the perfect example of this. When I go to see Alice in Wonderland, I want more eye candy than my brain can handle, laughing one minute, somewhat tense from a chase the next and grinning from ear to ear as a parade of highly imaginative characters gets their screen time. Tim Burton’s Alice lacks the power to grab you, even in the final moments when the lead heroine takes the Vorpal Sword in hand and charges toward the Jabberwocky. Even 3D doesn’t save this film and seems a throw away feature, only succeeding in creating layers like a view master reel. A good pop up book holds more surprises. The real shame is that it will be many years before anyone attempts to revisit Wonderland and give us the magic we’ve been looking forward to and we know Hollywood is capable of. Until then, go rent Disney’s animated film and allow yourself a genuinely happy moment.

A Tour of Tim Burton's Wonderland

Disney takes us down the rabbit hole and into a brightly colored world where "insane" is a matter of perception. The March 5th release date of Alice in Wonderland is right around the corner, so let's take a look at the world you are about to dive head long into!


A Tour of Tim Burton's Wonderland Part 1
Uploaded by Nomadixxx. - Full seasons and entire episodes online.


A Tour of Tim Burton's Wonderland Part 2
Uploaded by Nomadixxx. - Full seasons and entire episodes online.

Funko Goes from Bobbles to Plush

Funko are known far and wide for their bobble head figures in all the shapes and sizes your dorkly dreams can conjure, but recently, Funko have been going soft on us. Prepare..for the coming of the PLUSHIES!!

Alice in Wonderland: Due out this month - Through the looking glass, Alice thought she found just the place she was looking for, but ended up wanting something less... mad! The Alice in Wonderland Plush series are approximately 7-inches tall and feature the endearingly insane characters with signature style-- ready to cuddle you in retro style! Included in the series are...

• The Mad Hatter
• The Cheshire Cat
• Alice
• The White Rabbit

The Wizard of Oz: Coming April, 2010 - L. Frank Baum's beloved The Wizard of Oz characters live on! Direct from the magical Land of Oz, comes this adorable plush line, each standing 7 inches tall and styled after the iconic characters we love with a retro feel. The line includes...

• Dorothy (with Toto)
  
• The Wicked Witch
• The Lion
• The Scarecrow
• The Tin Man
• A Flying Monkey!

Rat Fink Plush: Coming May, 2010 - Rat Fink - the icon of Kustom Kulture - is featured in his signature red jumpsuit in this crazy-yet-cuddly Rat Fink Plush. Measures approximately 12-inches tall.



Jimi Hendrix Purple Haze Plush: June 2010 - This Jimi Hendrix Purple Haze Plush stands approximately 7-inches tall, and even features his classic guitar. A fun and stylized version of the legendary rocker.



Bob Marley Reggae Rasta Plush: June 2010 - Stands approximately 7-inches tall, dressed to the nines in his best Jamaican-inspired clothing and hat.










Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer Bumble: Coming August, 2010 - Journey to the Island of Misfit Toys and play around with Rudolph and all his friends! This Bumble plush is the perfect gift for the holidays...or anytime, for fans of this stop-motion holiday classic! Stands approximately 7-inches tall. The line also has Rudolph, Hermey the Elf and the Spotted Elephant, but they are lame, so i ditched them.

Hit up Entertainment Earth to pre-order any of these little squishy characters for the one you love.

Mezco's Living Dead Dolls in Wonderland Cheshire Cat Revealed

Last week, we showed you the purple UK edition RIGHT HERE. Now Mezco writes in with the official word and images..

Fans have eagerly been awaiting info on the release of the Cheshire Cat and now the wait is over!

Jinx has been reimagined as the Cheshire Cat and there are two versions:

The Purple Cheshire Cat is exclusive to Asia and the UK, as well as Hot Topic (in the US).
The Orange Cheshire Cat is exclusive to Mezco Direct as part of a limited edition variant set of all five Living Dead Dolls In Wonderland characters available exclusively through Mezco Direct. Both are limited editions but they are not individually numbered. All of these characters and more will make appearances in the first ever Living Dead Dolls storybook; Living Dead Dolls In Wonderland, now available for pre-order at Mezco Direct.















Now, our pics from UK showed a different looking set, which Mike Drake of the Mez tells us is the regular set. Those pictured above are the variant set that comes with the Orange Cheshire Cat. Sneaksy Hobitses, thems.

Meet The White Queen

March 5th!!!

Hathaway currently stars as the White Queen in Tim Burton's epic 3D fantasy adventure “ALICE IN WONDERLAND.”

Q: Is this an adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s books?

A: This is “Alice in Wonderland” 10 years later. The story isn’t the same. And in re-reading the book in preparation for the film, I noticed that a lot of it is Alice trying to figure out who she isn’t by process of elimination. She knows that she isn’t all the things that people are saying that she is, and so, by going through all of them, she gets a better idea of what she is. And in the Tim Burton “ALICE IN WONDERLAND,” Alice is trying to name who she is without using the process of elimination in a similar way. There’s a great line in it, where someone says, “You seem like Alice, but you’ve lost your muchness.” That’s my favorite line. So I think if the book is about Alice exploring her imagination, this one is about Alice finding her soul.

Q: Why have his books been enjoyed for generations?

A: In my opinion, what makes a great book is something that is universally specific. I didn’t read the “Alice” books when I was a child. I read them when I was in college. I was really into Nabokov, and apparently, he was really into Lewis Carroll, so I thought it was a good idea. So I read it from the perspective of a young woman becoming a woman—and I really related to it, the idea that you’re never the right size, that you could drink something to make you feel smaller, or eat something to make you feel bigger. I remember that it just appealed to me because I understood it. On the surface, it’s kind of light and fantastical, but it actually does play into a lot of deep, psychological fears we have—inadequacies that we feel we have, insecurities, the way we relate to the world around us. And in Wonderland, the world is hyper-emotional. It doesn’t make sense. People don’t make logical, emotional sense, and people feel things very, very grandly, and it’s just full of contrarians. So then, you have this young girl—who’s quite sensible, especially for a young girl—navigating her way through it. Sometimes, you feel like you’re the supporting cast of characters, the Wonderland crew, and then other times, you feel like you’re Alice. Like I said, when something is that universally specific—universal enough that it’s just a great, entertaining story, but specific enough that you can find yourself in it and relate to it at different points in your life—I think that could possibly explain why people keep going back to it.

Q: Why are Carroll’s characters such great fodder for film?

A: One of the reasons why Lewis Carroll’s characters work so well in cinema is because they’re wildly imaginative and there’s no one way to interpret them. Because Lewis Carroll played around with words and concepts, and because the characters appeal to the imagination, I feel there are as many interpretations as there are imaginations in the world. It depends on what your take is.

Q: And why are the characters also great for a Tim Burton movie?

A: One of the reasons why “ALICE IN WONDERLAND” and Tim are such a great match is because nothing is exactly as it seems in Wonderland. Nothing is entirely good or entirely bad. There’s a mixture of life and texture and intention, and I think that’s something with which Tim is really comfortable. And if you look throughout his filmography, nothing is ever what it appears to be or should be. So, I think in that sense, living in the questions, the ambiguity, but also the specificity of the world—these are things in which Tim excels as filmmaker. I believe the filmmaker and the subject matter complement each other really beautifully in this film.

Q: Describe the character you play.

A: I play the White Queen. When I was trying to work her out, I kept saying to myself, ‘She is a punk-rock, vegan pacifist.’ So I listened to a lot of Blondie, I watched a lot of Greta Garbo movies, and I looked at a lot of the artwork of Dan Flavin. Then a little bit of Norma Desmond got thrown in there, too. And she just kind of emerged. And I really like her. When I first came onboard the project, Tim talked a lot about the relationship between the sisters, and that really opened the character up to me a lot. She comes from the same gene pool as the Red Queen. She really likes the dark side, but she’s so scared of going too far into it that she’s made everything appear very light and happy. But she’s living in that place out of fear that she won’t be able to control herself. There’s a lot to play around in. It was awesome. I had so much fun.

Q: Why did you want to be in this film and play this role?

A: I’m just going to be a gushy fan for a second. I love Tim Burton—he’s one of my all-time favorite filmmakers. For as long as he’s been making films, I’ve been going to them opening weekend. And I watch them again and again on DVD. I love his aesthetic. I love his ability to pace as a filmmaker, his comfort with things that are kind of odd—he also finds a way to ground them. I think it’s very unusual to find a filmmaker who isn’t trying to be different for the sake of being different, to show you something you’ve never seen, but is actually yearning to stretch the limits of his imagination. So everything Tim does comes from a very pure place. And I think that’s why his movies, in spite of the sometimes off-beat subject matter, have such heart. I love that. “Alice” itself is such a classic, amazing story, and it has been told so many times—but when I heard the combination Tim Burton/”ALICE IN WONDERLAND,” I knew it was going to be a very specific, very wonderful adventure. I love my character. I love that she seems to be the voice of reason—you’d think that she would be the good queen. But she didn’t have to be. I really had a lot of fun playing around with this idea, that what’s good in Wonderland is not necessarily good in the real world.

Q: Describe what she does with her hands, and the way that she walks.

A: That was absolutely derivative from the costume because, [costume designer] Colleen Atwood, who’s just such a genius, made this dress that has so much detail to it, that’s so complex, but it doesn’t look at all heavy. It looks like if you didn’t attach a weight to it, that it would float up into the air and spin around. And I noticed the way the dress moved when I was in it. It was never my intention to create a perfect light. I just wanted her to arrive in certain places, and in my head I just thought, the way she walks, she occasionally bumps into things and doesn’t know how she got there. And she’s a little dopey and kind of ditzy, but at the same time, very clued in. And so, the walk just happened. I took very, very fast footsteps, and I noticed the more languid I could make my arms, the more it looked like I was gliding. And that’s when the Norma Desmond thing happened. I remember being really nervous about the first take. And I did it and Tim smiled, so it was nice. That’s the feeling on set. ‘Show me your imagination. Show me how far you can take this.’ And I always had absolute trust that if it went too far, Tim would pull it back. He actually has a story in his head that he wants to tell. So usually what would happen, it would be some kind of combination of straightforward story and imaginary weirdness. And it was just nice the way it all fit together.

Q: What’s going on with the White Queen when we first meet her?

A: The White Queen has had her crown taken from her, and she’s basically powerless to stop her sister’s reign of tyranny. Her sister is the Red Queen. And so, she is waiting. She’s basically taken a vow of non-violence that she cannot break, and she’s waiting for her champion to arrive to help her reclaim her throne—the citizens of Underland would like to see that happen. They want to see her restored to power, because she’s kind.

Q: What is the relationship between the White Queen and the Red Queen?

A: The relationship between the White Queen and the Red Queen is not good. They are sisters, but I don’t think it was ever particularly good. I just think that my character would never admit that she doesn’t like her sister. I think she tries to make excuses for her. She tries to find little things to love about her, but she really doesn’t that much. I think, from her perspective, if the Red Queen were just a bit nicer to her—allow the possibility that they could be friends, allow the room for love—that she would be willing to give over to it. But the Red Queen just rubs her the wrong way. They’re not buddies—they’re just related.

Q: Who plays the Red Queen?

A: Helena Bonham Carter, in addition to being one of the most brilliant women I’ve ever had the pleasure to talk to, is so much fun as the Red Queen. She has so much energy that she gives to it. And her characterization is so lovely and demanding, not child-like but childish, and selfish and impossible to please. Then, at other times, she’s really vulnerable and sad, because this person is going to be lonely forever, because she’s just so darn selfish. She’s endlessly entertaining in the role. Her look and the dedication that it takes—three, four hours to get into that hair and makeup.

Q: Talk about the actor who plays The Mad Hatter.

A: The actor who plays the Mad Hatter, Johnny Depp—I have so much fun watching him in all of his movies as an audience member, so to actually get to watch him perform live is such a treat. He’s so inventive—and he’s kind, just a very kind, warm man. But to actually watch him in his element, in his zone, just acting, it’s a thrill. I want him to do theater so that everyone else can get in on it. He’s very powerful. I just felt very privileged to get to watch him.

Q: What does Mia Wasikowska bring to her role?

A: Mia Wasikowska is an absolute delight of a young woman. She’s so playful and natural and down-to-earth—but she also has this ethereal quality to her, she feels timeless. What she brings to Alice is very, very difficult to pull off. Every time I do a scene with her, I’m just amazed at what she’s doing with it and that a young actress can bring so much gravity to this world. It’s somewhat eerie, the way she’s able to communicate feeling and where Alice is at that moment. It was lovely to work with her, just to get to observe that.

Q: What is your impression about how this film is being made?

A: I took a very Zen approach to filmmaking on this one. It sounds silly, but I had no idea what was going on. I walked in and it was like being in a neon-green terrarium—green on all sides, and tons of empty space. Tim knew what was going on—he was the one that is in control of it. All I needed to do was hit my mark and say my lines, and wait for Tim to tell me that we’re ready to move on. And that was my approach to it. I didn’t put any other pressure on myself. I just showed up and acted.

Q: What are you wearing in this movie?

A: I’m wearing a dress designed by Colleen Atwood. It’s grand and the most fragile dress I’ve ever worn in my life. I love it so much. It’s beautiful. If you ever had a dream of being any kind of fairy princess, this is the dress you would wear. I love the idea that it’s this idealized, fairy-tale Queen, but it is in a Tim Burton movie, so there’s darkness mixed up with it as well.

Q: What do audiences have to look forward to with this film?

A: Because the world of this film begins and ends in the imagination of Tim Burton, you’re not seeing a movie that’s been shot on locations that you’ve seen a million times. Because this world has no rules, you’re seeing so many different and separate brushstrokes and colors and characterizations somehow getting combined through Tim. And what I think you’re getting is an absolute exploration of the imagination. I think that’s the essence of the book, and I think that’s the spirit Tim’s brought to the film. Everybody on the film was so clever, so creative, so imaginative—and I think that’s what the film is about—how can we tell a story that honors the imagination in the most imaginative way humanly possible? And that’s such a fantastic idea.