We here at A2M, are all anxiously awaiting the Tim Burton version of Alice in Wonderland. This week a whole slew of images from the teaser were released and published on sites across the web. They originated from a first look article on USA Today which is actually interactive. But, before we see more screenshots, spoilers, etc. I have to ask, do we really want to? Undoubtedly, for some of us the answer is yes. We just can't wait, and we have to know every possible little detail concerning the movie as to leave no surprise. No doubt, releasing press photos like the ones released on USA today, drive up anticipation for the film and activate fan interest. But, do they actually kill the movie going experience? Dave Chen brought a good example up on the Filmcast about this. During the ad campaign for Phantom Menace a major spoiler for the movie was showcased in the main trailer, the famous Double light saber. I implore you, as Dave Chen did before me, to imagine watching that movie, getting to that battle and feeling your jaw hit the floor and your eyes open up like saucers when Darth Maul whips out his double ended light sword. So how much do I want to see of Alice in Wonderland before it comes out? I don't know. The curiosity in me kills, but I know the reward for naivety will be great.
The studios can tease and whip up hype without revealing cool surprises.
Here is a good example of what I'm talking about. The press kit for Alice that USA Today received had a pick of Helena Bohnam Carter as the Queen of Hearts. It's reveals in the picture that in Tim Burton's adaptation, Carter's body has been replaced on screen with a smaller CG body. For me, that was a pretty big spoiler. The visual of this well known actress on screen with the proportions of Betty Boop would have really blown me away had I not known about it prior.
I wish more studios took the Spike Jonze route. In the press material and trailer for Jonze's upcoming Where The Wild Things Are movie, details regarding the lumbering beast characters have been doled out accordingly. The trailer shows quick cuts of the Wild Things. The posters only show glimpses.