“Neco z Alenky,” also known as “Alice,” is a surreal and visually stunning film directed by Jan Švankmajer. Released in 1988, it is a Czechoslovakian adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s famous novel, “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.”

The movie follows a young girl named Alice as she falls into a bizarre and nightmarish Wonderland. Unlike other adaptations of Carroll’s work, “Neco z Alenky” takes a decidedly darker and more surreal approach. The film combines live-action footage with stop-motion animation and uses a wide range of unconventional and unsettling techniques to create a unique and unsettling atmosphere.

One of the standout aspects of “Neco z Alenky” is its visual style. Švankmajer’s use of stop-motion animation, combined with the integration of real objects, gives the film a distinct and haunting aesthetic. Everyday objects are transformed into fantastical and grotesque entities, adding to the sense of unease and wonder. The attention to detail in the animation is remarkable, and each frame is meticulously crafted to create a visually captivating experience.

The film’s narrative is fragmented and non-linear, reflecting the dreamlike nature of Wonderland. It deviates from the traditional structure of Carroll’s story, focusing more on the surreal and macabre elements. “Neco z Alenky” delves into the darker corners of Alice’s subconscious, exploring themes of fear, desire, and the loss of innocence. The movie doesn’t shy away from portraying disturbing and unsettling imagery, which may not be suitable for young or sensitive viewers.

The performances in the film are minimal, with most of the characters portrayed by stop-motion puppets. However, the voice acting and the physicality of the actors bring an eerie authenticity to the characters. Kristýna Kohoutová, who plays Alice, gives a convincing and enigmatic performance, capturing the confusion and curiosity of the character.

While “Neco z Alenky” received critical acclaim for its innovative visuals and interpretation of Carroll’s work, it’s worth noting that the film’s unconventional style and disturbing imagery may not be to everyone’s taste. It appeals more to viewers who appreciate experimental and unconventional cinema.

Overall, “Neco z Alenky” is a haunting and visually captivating adaptation of “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” Its unique approach to storytelling and stunning stop-motion animation make it a memorable and unsettling cinematic experience. If you’re a fan of surreal and thought-provoking films, it’s definitely worth giving “Neco z Alenky” a watch.