The enchanting world of Once Upon a Time charmd audiences with its fusion of classic fairytales and Disney characters venturing into the real world. While the main series concluded in 2018, fans can still explore its magical corners through the spin-off, Once Upon a Time in Wonderland.
Premiering in 2013, the series chronicles Alice’s return to Wonderland alongside her friend, the Knave of Hearts, as they go on a quest to reunite with her lost love, a genie named Cyrus. This iteration of Wonderland is a complex and intriguing one, filled with conflict between the benevolent Red Queen and the cunning Jafar.
Despite its one-season run, Once Upon a Time in Wonderland offers a tightly woven and engaging tale. The concise narrative avoids unnecessary filler episodes, ensuring that each scene contributes to the overall arc. Character dynamics are well-developed, allowing each personality to shine throughout the series.
A Still From Once Upon a Time in Wonderland (Via IMDB)
A unique strength of the spin-off is its expansion on the beloved characters from the main series. Will Scarlet, one of Robin Hood’s Merry Men, takes center stage, exploring his relationships with Maleficent and the Red Queen. Other familiar faces like the Caterpillar and Cora also make appearances, adding familiarity and delight to the narrative.
While Wonderland exists within the same universe as Once Upon a Time, it maintains its own identity. Characters like Jafar and the Red Queen, later incorporated into the parent series, originated in this spin-off.
Despite its cancellation due to declining ratings, Once Upon a Time in Wonderland stands as a valuable addition to the Once Upon a Time universe. It offers a charming tale filled with magic, adventure, and well-developed characters, providing viewers with a journey down the rabbit hole.
