Wonderland (1999)
Genre: Drama
Duration: 108 minuten
Country:
United Kingdom
Directed by: Michael Winterbottom
Stars: Shirley Henderson, Gina McKee and Molly Parker
IMDb score:
7,1 (4.365)
Releasedate: 13 May 1999
This movie is not available on US streaming services.
Reviews & comments
maxcomthrilla
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- 15587 messages
- 2879 votes
Wonderland is not a reference to the state of mind of many characters in this film, but to a famous name.
An extremely bleak film that, fortunately, does not descend into sheer misery. Nadia's story resonated with me the most. Searching for that one soulmate in that teeming, vibrant city, where you might occasionally find yourself feeling quite alone. After countless failed attempts to snag someone, you do start to feel sorry for Nadia, who, however, refuses to give up: falling down, getting back up, and moving on is her motto.
The somewhat superficial interactions with the heavily pregnant sister Molly, who is later abandoned by her boyfriend, and which Nadia finds hilarious, reveal that this is not a film where the sisters are sentimentally cuddling up to each other or immediately turn against one another after such an incident. Just some schadenfreude, that's all! Everyone leads their own life, without immediately feeling ostracized from their family.
In addition, there were a few strange moments every now and then. Like when that Pakistani, I believe, shouts something along the lines of: You can't beat me, I'm stronger than a lion. It made no sense, but it was funny. Judging by the subsequent scene where the old man is lovingly welcomed by a foreign woman , Winterbottom never meant to say: Foreigners in London's working-class neighborhoods are a problem. There was absolutely no political motive behind it.
Decent music, beautiful, atmospheric, and colorful shots of London at night, and a story that really grabs you by the throat, given how real the characters come across here. They have simply been transformed into 'people'. After minor disappointments like '9 Songs' and especially 'The Road to Guantanamo', this film can stand alongside 'In This World' as the best Winterbottom for now. 4*
Translated from Dutch · View original
sinterklaas
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- 11835 messages
- 3326 votes
Another solid film from Winterbottom, about three sisters all trying to find their way in bustling London. Mostly fragmented, which Winterbottom often has a knack for, but featuring beautiful visuals, good acting, and a nice coherence. The sisters' grumpy parents and that one withdrawn Afro also manage to create a nice presence here. The hopelessness and the failure of plans for a better life are beautifully portrayed.
It is a typical 90s UK film where the soundtrack is supposed to stand out, though this one manages to stay on a low burner within the category. Nevertheless, an entertaining diversion.
3.5*
Translated from Dutch · View original
scorsese
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- 13506 messages
- 11317 votes
A good film about three sisters in London. A slice-of-life film with not one main character, but multiple characters who are all struggling with their lives. The lack of a story isn't a major issue, but the film does occasionally lack focus. However, the film gets better as it progresses, which is certainly helped by the beautiful soundtrack.
Translated from Dutch · View original
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