NEW JERSEY STAGE : Elisa in Wonderland Review

Review by Evelyn Reese. (USA) – published in New Jersey Stage

Striking, compelling, and wickedly, yet beautifully tormented– words cannot describe the deep layers of intrinsic whimsy found in Elisa in Wonderland, another masterful film by Cléa van der Grijn. From set design to exceptional performances by the brilliant actors, not a single shot is lacking importance nor intrigue.

The main ensemble: Nora Ní Anluain Fay, Hilary Bowen-Walsh, and Senna O’Hara seamlessly weave into the contradictingly tumultuous and romantic atmosphere so intelligently produced by van der Grijn. The integrity of Elisa in Wonderland is stark and proud, highlighting the true artistry of its cast and crew. Fay’s depiction of the stratified Elisa gorgeously displays her descent into her mind’s decay, balancing hysteria and dissociation perfectly. Combining Fay’s stellar portrayal with that of Bowen-Walsh’s stoic composure, the audience can follow reality and distortion, while still stumbling on the line of both in Elisa’s shoes, fully allowing the viewer to appreciate the writing and cinematography.

There is no way to watch this film and not be fully immersed in the storyline, alluring wallpapers and paintings, and the magnificence of Elisa’s estate. The introduction of the various paintings throughout the film, first as ravishing decorations and then as enablements of Elisa’s illness, is yet another incredibly astute choice by van der Grijn, tying in the idea that one’s surroundings make their reality. The solipsistic aspects of Elisa’s lack of grip on the material around her as she falls deeper into the rabbit hole her mind swallows itself in, cleverly illustrates the fact that all she honestly can say exists, is herself– an isolating realization that, as performed, draws immense sympathy from the audience.

Once again, Cléa van der Grijn and her beyond talented cast and crew have brought to life a stunning world that can only be characterized as wonderful. It goes without saying that Elisa in Wonderland is a must see.