‘Ever Seen That?’ – Wonderland

John Mosley flips it back to 2003 for a look at Wonderland on the latest edition of 'Ever Seen That?'

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We’re heading back nearly seventeen years today with this underrated gem about the gruesome Wonderland murders. Now, if you don’t know what the Wonderland murders are, do yourself a favor and don’t Google or look into them before watching the film. That’s how I went into the film years ago when I caught it on one of the various movie channels on a late night.

I had remembered hearing about the case, but not really diving into it. So when I realized it involved famous porn star John Holmes, the film had my interest. Well, it wasn’t so much Holmes as it was Val Kilmer playing post-porn-fame Johnny Wadd. I LOVE Val Kilmer. Everything from Doc Holliday in Tombstone to Dieter Von Cunth in the supremely underrated MacGruber if Val is in the cast I’m there. His performance in Wonderland is a real highlight of the film, as he takes the complicated character and at times has you feeling sorry, then others has you wanting to choke him out.

Aside from Kilmer, the film is jam-packed with talent, as a mix of underworld crooks, cops, and various characters along the way. Dylan McDermott, Kate Bosworth, Josh Lucas, Ted Levine, Tim Blake Nelson, Faizon Love, and Eric Bogosian all bring in scene-stealing moments along the way in roles varying from small to essential. McDermott especially stands out as David Lind, who very easily could have been another victim in the attack. There’s even a Carrie Fisher cameo that’s a little bit of fun. All in all, it’s a really solid cast from top to bottom. 

Along with the cast, the storytelling of Wonderland always stands out to me on re-watches. Throughout the journey, the audience is told about events from different character POVs, meaning not all the pieces line up. It’s almost Rashomon-esque, where it’s up to the viewer to decide who they believe. The plot device especially works well in this world full of liars where you know deep down you probably can’t believe any of them. Add in the quick cuts/edits of the film that almost bring on the feeling of a drug rush throughout its rapid 104 minute run time, and you have an experience all its own. 

Wonderland is currently free on Tubi and Vudu but can also be rented from all your favorite VOD services! 

John Mosley is the independent wrestling and TV aficionado of the SoBros Network. He graduated from ETSU with a degree in Radio, TV and Film along with a minor in Film Studies. Since graduating he’s done pretty much nothing but watch, film, edit or commentate for local wrestling promotions and is the current color commentator for Resolute Wrestling. #Preds #Titans #DefendOrVacateConor. Follow on Twitter: @SoBroMose

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