Following the industry-shifting success of “Wicked,” studios are accelerating their push into big-budget musical filmmaking — and Universal Pictures has now recruited Sabrina Carpenter to headline and produce a bold new musical take on “Alice in Wonderland.” The project positions Carpenter not only as the film’s star but as a creative force behind the camera through her At Last Productions banner, marking a significant leap in her on-screen and behind-the-scenes career.
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The film will be directed and written by Lorene Scafaria, known for sharp, character-driven work, suggesting that “Alice in Wonderland” may lean toward a personality-forward interpretation rather than strictly a fantasy retread. Universal is framing the film as a new imagining of the franchise rather than a straight remake, which opens the door to stylistic reinvention, musical experimentation, and a contemporary twist on Wonderland shaped around Carpenter’s performance energy and influence.
Carpenter’s selection signals a strategic alignment between studio ambition and modern star power. With a fan base spanning pop charts, streaming dominance, and social media, she brings strong, built-in visibility to a property with decades of name recognition. Universal appears to be betting that Carpenter’s multi-platform momentum can anchor a large-scale musical release that appeals to younger audiences while refreshing a classic narrative for a new generation.
The timing is intentional. The success of “Wicked” reaffirmed that musicals — when driven by marquee performers and strong branding — can still function as major theatrical tentpoles. Universal is clearly positioning “Alice in Wonderland” as part of that wave, capitalizing on the renewed appetite for musical event films. The studio has not yet confirmed whether the songs will be original, contemporary, or reinterpretations of Carroll-inspired themes, but Carpenter’s musical background gives them wide creative flexibility.
No release date has been announced, and additional casting details remain under wraps. The project is still in early development, but Universal’s decision to reveal Carpenter’s dual role this early underscores confidence in her ability to shape the film creatively from the ground up.
As Hollywood leans deeper into a new era of studio-backed musicals, “Alice in Wonderland” stands out as a clear signal: Carpenter isn’t just stepping into Wonderland — she’s helping reinvent it.
