Is Sabrina Carpenter Set to Star in a New Musical Adaptation of Alice in Wonderland?

Sabrina Carpenter is set to return to her acting roots by starring in and producing a musical adaptation of Alice in Wonderland for Universal Pictures. This project, directed by Lorene Scafaria, marks Carpenter's first leading role in a major studio film, as she aims to blend her musical talents with her acting career.

Last updated: 12 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Sabrina Carpenter, known primarily for her musical career, is reportedly making a significant shift back to acting with an upcoming musical film adaptation of the classic tale, Alice in Wonderland. According to multiple US media reports, Carpenter has taken the initiative to create this project, which is in the early stages of development with Universal Pictures. Filmmaker Lorene Scafaria, renowned for her work on the acclaimed film Hustlers, is attached to write and direct the film. While details regarding Carpenter's character remain undisclosed, the adaptation signals an exciting new chapter in her career as she embraces her roots in acting.

Key takeaways

Sabrina Carpenter will star in and produce a musical film adaptation of Alice in Wonderland.
The project is being developed by Universal Pictures and directed by Lorene Scafaria.
This marks Carpenter's first leading role in a major studio film.
Carpenter has a successful music career, recently nominated for six Grammy Awards.
The film is still in early development, with production timelines yet to be confirmed.

Timeline: how we got here

Here’s a brief timeline of significant events leading to this announcement:

1865: Lewis Carroll first publishes Alice's Adventures in Wonderland.
1951: Disney releases the animated version of Alice in Wonderland.
2010: Tim Burton's live-action adaptation of Alice in Wonderland is released, starring Johnny Depp.
2022: Sabrina Carpenter approaches Universal Pictures with her ideas for an adaptation.
2023: Reports surface regarding Carpenter's role as producer and lead actress in the upcoming project.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The recent news highlights Carpenter’s proactive approach in developing the film, suggesting that she has long been invested in bringing this project to life. With Lorene Scafaria confirmed as the writer and director, the creative direction of the film is expected to incorporate both musical elements and a fresh narrative perspective on the beloved classic.

What was already established

Previous adaptations of Alice in Wonderland have varied in style and interpretation. The original story, published by Lewis Carroll in 1865, has inspired numerous films, theatre productions, and merchandise. Carpenter's adaptation is anticipated to add a unique musical twist, which differs from previous versions focusing more on visual storytelling.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

As Carpenter's film progresses, it is likely to generate interest among UK audiences familiar with her music and previous acting roles. The film's release could also boost local cinema attendance, particularly among younger viewers who follow Carpenter's career closely.

Businesses and jobs

The production of the film will create job opportunities within the entertainment sector, from cast and crew to local businesses supporting the film’s logistics. This could also encourage partnerships with UK-based film companies or production teams as the project develops.

Policy and regulation

With the film industry being a significant contributor to the UK economy, any large-scale production, like Carpenter's adaptation, may draw attention to the need for supportive policies for the arts. Local governments may wish to engage in discussions regarding film incentives or support initiatives for the creative sector.

Numbers that matter

6: The number of Grammy nominations Sabrina Carpenter received for her latest album, Man's Best Friend.
1: This will be Carpenter's first leading role in a major studio film.
2: Number of headline shows Carpenter performed at the BST Festival in London this summer.
2019: The year Lorene Scafaria directed the hit film Hustlers, showcasing her capability to helm this new project.
1865: The year Alice's Adventures in Wonderland was first published, marking over 150 years of its cultural influence.

Definitions and jargon buster

Universal Pictures: An American film studio known for producing and distributing numerous successful films.
Musical adaptation: A film or stage production that incorporates songs and music as a central storytelling element.
Grammy Awards: An annual awards ceremony that recognises excellence in the music industry.
Disney Channel: A cable television network known for producing family-oriented programming, including original series and films.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the coming weeks, further details regarding casting and production timelines are expected to emerge as the project moves forward. Fans and industry observers will be keen to see how Carpenter's vision comes to fruition.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As production gears up, updates on filming locations, additional cast members, and teasers may be released, generating buzz around the project. This period will be crucial for marketing strategies aimed at attracting audiences.

Signals to watch

Official announcements from Universal Pictures regarding production start dates.
Updates on casting decisions and character details.
Promotional material or teasers that may hint at the film's tone and musical elements.

Practical guidance

Do

Keep an eye on news from Universal Pictures for updates on the film's progress.
Explore previous adaptations of Alice in Wonderland for context on the story's evolution.
Follow Sabrina Carpenter's social media for potential insights or announcements regarding the film.

Don’t

Assume that the film will mirror previous adaptations; each interpretation can offer a unique take.
Miss out on engaging with Carpenter's music, which could provide a deeper appreciation for her film work.
Overlook the significance of the film in the context of broader trends in musical adaptations.

Checklist

Stay informed about casting announcements and production updates.
Review Carpenter's past work to understand her range as an actress.
Engage with Alice in Wonderland content to prepare for the film's themes.
Follow industry news for commentary on the film's artistic direction.
Join fan communities to discuss expectations and theories about the adaptation.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While excitement surrounds Carpenter’s project, uncertainties remain regarding the film's direction and production timeline. The involvement of a well-known director like Lorene Scafaria suggests a strong creative vision, but adaptations of beloved classics can be polarising. Additionally, the current landscape of film production may affect timelines, especially with potential delays in casting or other logistical challenges.

Bottom line

Sabrina Carpenter's transition back into acting with a musical adaptation of Alice in Wonderland represents an exciting development in her career. With the combination of her musical talents and the creative vision of Lorene Scafaria, the project has the potential to resonate with both fans of the original story and new audiences alike. As details unfold, it will be interesting to see how this adaptation shapes up in the landscape of contemporary cinema.

FAQs

What character will Sabrina Carpenter play in Alice in Wonderland?

The specific character Sabrina Carpenter will portray in the upcoming musical adaptation of Alice in Wonderland has yet to be confirmed.

Who is directing the Alice in Wonderland film?

The film will be directed by Lorene Scafaria, known for her successful work on the film Hustlers.

When will the film be released?

As of now, there is no confirmed release date for the Alice in Wonderland adaptation, as it is still in the early stages of development.