Wonderful time in Wonderland

AN EXTRA in the new Alice in Wonderland film has spoken of the meticulous nature of acclaimed director Tim Burton.

Up to 11 or 12 takes per scene and constant angle changes were all part of the "endearing qualities" of the flamboyant director, according to retired Royal Navy Lieutenant Commander, George Chandler.

Mr Chandler, aged 66, spent six days playing the part of a Victorian garden party guest on the film's set at Antony House in Torpoint.

He was speaking to The Herald as filming began to wind up at the National Trust's 18th-century property.

The film's production staff – and 250 extras – have been on set since last week filming what is believed to be the Mad Hatter's tea party scene for the 3-D Disney film.

Meanwhile, earlier this week in Los Angeles, Hollywood heart-throb Johnny Depp announced he will take up the role of the Mad Hatter, although it is believed his appearance in the film will be computer generated.

He was heavily rumoured to be filming at Antony but this proved unfounded.

"Sometimes there were as many as 11 or 12 takes on certain scenes," said Millfields-based Mr Chandler.

"Tim Burton is an absolute stickler for detail. He was constantly changing camera angles to get the right shot.

"It was wonderful to see. He is very flamboyant and his arms were constantly in the air. He's very distinctive. It was a real treat to hear him shout 'action'."

Tim Burton's previous films include Batman and Edward Scissor Hands.

Mr Chandler said the extras were looked after throughout filming and were made to feel like stars.

"The weather was beautiful but we weren't allowed to get a tan," he added.

"We were given umbrellas to shield us and the production team were constantly slapping sun cream on us.

"We were well looked after and handed bottles of water throughout. The food that was laid on was immense as well.

"I was a catering officer in the navy for a number of years and I am used to seeing food presented to a number of people, but this was incredible."

There were very strict rules associated with working on the set. We were told if we carried a mobile phone onto the set or tried to take pictures we would be ejected immediately," he added.

Among the stars on the South East Cornwall set included Australian newcomer Mia Wasikowska who is playing the part of Alice, English actor Tim Piggot Smith, and award-winning English actresses Geraldine James and Frances De La Tour.

Mr Chandler said he believes filming will now move to Charlestown near St Austell, where the crew will shoot some dock scenes. He said of his role as an extra: "It was a wonderful experience and it will be a fantastic thing to show my grandchildren.

"The days were long – up to 16 hours – and we were on set at 3am, 4am and 5am on some days. It was a unique experience and one which I will never forget.

"It was generously paid and it was wonderful to see a major movie being made. I feel honoured to have been chosen."

Alice in Wonderland is set for release in 2010.