Phoebe in Wonderland (2008): A Hidden Gem Filled with Hope

It’s a play. I can do whatever I want.

Phoebe in Wonderland is a 2008 film. Young Phoebe Lichten is exhibiting unusual behavior and lashing out in school. When she joins the elementary school play of Alice in Wonderland, her world is opened up to a new and enlightening direction.

I have been searching down every rabbit hole for Phoebe in Wonderland for over a year (maybe more). I was jumping more than the average bunny would when the full movie was uploaded to YouTube. Phoebe in Wonderland is a thought-provoking look into the world of mental illness and the positive impacts of theater.

This movie was the ultimate career step for Elle Fanning, who delivered a provocative performance at a young age. Phoebe’s imagination soars beyond that of any child, but her behavior is alarming. I still can’t believe this was Fanning’s leading debut. Fanning’s performance as the bright and artsy child deserves more praise for her natural abilities.

Another reason I wanted to watch this film was for the talented Patrica Clarkson. She is another underrated actress. Clarkson delivers an understated performance as Miss Dodger, the school’s theater arts teacher. Miss Dodger has a unique way of teaching, letting the children direct their own shows. However, her inattentive actions raise eyebrows amongst faculty.

Felicity Huffman (Hillary) and Bill Pullman (Peter) demonstrate the hard work it takes to be a parent. Every parent undergoes challenges. Phoebe’s behavior bogs down the parents, who are trying to figure out the right methods to help their young daughter. My mouth was agape when Peter confessed a harsh statement to Phoebe.

Huffman delivers this tear-jerking monologue about how she wants to understand the uncertainty, and at the same time, loves her children no matter what happens. It’s a moving testament to the definition of parenthood.

A talented children’s ensemble joins the film. Bailee Madison plays Phoebe’s younger sister, Olivia. I have always adored her natural abilities on the screen. I like the representation of Jaime (Ian Colletti), as his character taught younger audiences about sexuality. More credits include Campbell Scott, Tessa Albertson, Peter Gerety, and Madhur Jaffrey.

This was Daniel Barnz’s directorial debut. His direction is honest, recognizing a complex story about mental illness in children. He based the story on his own childhood, and it changed when he became a parent.

Barnz spent 10 years writing the script, planning the movie well before Elle Fanning was born! The film underwent challenges, but Barnz worked closely with his crew to create a film that audiences would enjoy.

Barnz is a theater geek, which is what drew him to write the story. I am also a theater geek, and have performed in several shows when I was in school. I wish I had started in elementary school. In the last two years, several films have portrayed the positive impact of theater. It’s a space to be yourself, test your abilities, and create.

We need more films like these that portray mental illness, especially in kids. Barnz authentically examined the film from a child’s perspective. I have noticed films side-stepping talking about mental health, fearing how it would impact audiences.

Having a mental illness is not the end of the world because we can find alternatives to help. The main response audiences will have is hope and gratitude. This is a film for anybody who is fighting similar battles.

As I said, Phoebe in Wonderland is very hard to find. It’s not on any streaming services. It’s a beautiful film with magnificent performances, a bold story, and a hopeful light.