Cox’s ‘Wonderland’ plunges viewers into the grim reality of the Wonderland murders that shocked Los Angeles in the early 1980s. This unsolved case, shrouded in mystery, centers around the brutal deaths at Wonderland Avenue and the potential involvement of figures from the fringes of Hollywood, including former porn king John Holmes. While the film doesn’t offer definitive answers, it provides a compelling, albeit fragmented, account of events, hinting at the dark underbelly of the era and the possible truths behind the horrific crime.
‘Wonderland’ adopts a non-linear narrative, presenting perspectives from key individuals entangled in the case. We see the events unfold through the eyes of John Holmes (Val Kilmer), the once-dominant figure in the world of pornography now struggling with addiction; Dawn Shiller (Kate Bosworth), Holmes’ girlfriend caught in the downward spiral; Sharon (Lisa Kudrow), Holmes’ estranged wife observing the unfolding chaos; and David Lind (Dylan McDermott), a shadowy figure with potential connections to the crime. This multi-perspective approach, while stylistically interesting, sometimes sacrifices narrative clarity for atmosphere.
The film’s strength lies in its visual and auditory execution. ‘Wonderland’ masterfully evokes the early 80s, transitioning from the excesses of the 70s into a period of growing unease. The chaotic camerawork and editing mirror the fractured state of mind of its characters and the disjointed nature of the investigation. The soundtrack and visual choices further immerse the audience in the period, creating a palpable sense of time and place. Notably, the film incorporates graphic elements, including actual crime scene photographs, which while adding to the sense of realism, might be disturbing for some viewers.
Val Kilmer’s casting as John Holmes has been a point of discussion. Physically, Kilmer bears little resemblance to the legendary pornographic actor. His performance, while competent in isolation, lacks the specific nuances that defined Holmes’ persona. It’s an interpretation rather than an impersonation, perhaps missing the mark for those familiar with the real John Holmes and his complex character. Kate Bosworth delivers a decent performance as Dawn Shiller, though the romantic relationship depicted feels somewhat underdeveloped, lacking the emotional depth to fully engage the audience. Dylan McDermott’s portrayal of David Lind also feels somewhat generic, failing to fully capitalize on the character’s potential intrigue.
Lisa Kudrow, in a smaller role as Sharon, Holmes’ estranged wife, stands out with a nuanced and natural performance. She brings a layer of subtle complexity to her character, offering a grounded perspective amidst the surrounding chaos. Josh Lucas, while adequate in his role, occasionally leans towards overacting, disrupting the otherwise somber tone. The film features a range of familiar faces in supporting roles, adding to the ensemble cast.
Prior to watching ‘Wonderland’, my understanding of the Wonderland murders was limited. The film served as a catalyst for further research, revealing the true extent of the brutality and horror of the crime. ‘Wonderland’ attempts to depict the events with a degree of accuracy, drawing from various accounts and theories surrounding the case. However, viewers seeking a neat resolution will be left wanting. The movie, much like the real-life investigation, stops short of providing definitive answers. Instead, it subtly suggests a likely scenario, hinting at John Holmes’ deeper involvement, potentially linked to his life in pornography and the associated underworld figures he may have encountered. For those interested in true crime and the shadowy corners of Hollywood history, ‘Wonderland’ offers a visually arresting, if narratively ambiguous, journey into a dark and disturbing chapter, where the world of pornography, personified by John Holmes, intersects with brutal reality.
