Alice in Wonderland Double Feature (1915/Silent and 1931 Versions) – DVD

Lewis Carroll's books Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass have been an inspiration to filmmakers since almost the dawn of cinema. The dreamlike imagery of Carroll's work has never failed to encourage directors to push the film medium to its limits.

Alice In Wonderland (BW, 1915): Filmed on Long Island, this silent version of 'Alice', the first long-form film adaptation of Carroll's work attempted, debuted at the Strand Theatre in New York on January 19, 1915. The imaginative costuming and set design faithfully capture the artwork of original illustrator John Tenniel. This version also features a complete rendering of the 'Father William' poem, usually abbreviated in subsequent depictions. Alice is played by 15 year-old stage actress Viola Savoy, and Elmo Lincoln, the big screen's first Tarzan, also appears. Starring Viola Savoy, Elmo Lincoln and Herbert Rice. Directed By: W.W. Young.

Alice In Wonderland (BW, 1931): Rushed out to capitalize on an 'Alice' mania that gripped the U.S. during the 100th birthday of Lewis Carroll, Metropolitan Studios released the first sound film of the classic tale in 1931, beating the big-budget Paramount version to theaters by two years. Director Bud Pollard was a New York-based producer who specialized in ethnic and exploitation films, many of which are now believed to be lost. Filmed in Fort Lee, New Jersey and starring Broadway actress Ruth Gilbert (later to play Milton Berle's secretary on "Texaco Star Theatre"), this 'Alice' may lack the polish of later big-screen adaptations but remains a fascinating curio.

• science fiction