ALICE IN WONDERLAND (1951)
WORLD PREMIERE RESTORATION | 75TH ANNIVERSARY PRESENTATION
When it debuted 75 years ago, Walt Disney’s version of the Lewis Carroll classic understandably sent audiences for a loop with its eye-popping visuals and trippy vibes. The voice cast included noted character stars like Ed Wynn, Richard Haydn, and Jerry Colonna, and Disney stalwarts Verna Felton, Sterling Holloway, and Kathryn Beaumont along with memorable songs, most by Sammy Fain and Bob Hilliard. While audiences of the 1950s weren’t sure what to make of the movie, by 1971, the film caught on with college audiences, who related to the dreamlike imagery used to portray Wonderland. By its official 1974 re-release, the film had become a hit, and it’s now considered one of Disney’s most imaginative animated features. That imagination is more vibrant than ever in this world premiere restoration.
d. Clyde Geronimi, Wilfred Jackson & Hamilton Luske, 75m, DCP
4K restoration from scans of the 35mm nitrate SE original camera negative, courtesy of Walt Disney Studios.