BEIJING, March 4 (Xinhuanet) -- Tim Burton's highly anticipated "Alice in Wonderland," the first big 3D release this year, is expected to outperform James Cameron's "Avatar" in its first weekend.

The marvelous interpretation of the classic child fantasy hits movie theaters in both standard format and IMAX 3-D on Friday.

Director Tim Burton and his wife actress Helen Bonham Carter pose for photographers as they arrive for the Royal World Premiere of "Alice In Wonderland" at Leicester Square in London February 25, 2010

Pre-release tracking indicates the Disney film could ring up 75 million U.S. dollars or more through Sunday. "Avatar" opened to 77 million dollars in mid-December and earned more than 1.9 billion dollars worldwide, becoming the biggest movie of all time.

The new version combines live action and animation. Known for his dark and quirky-themed films, the talented filmmaker sees 19-year-old Alice (Mia Wasikowska) set to save Wonderland from the tyrannical Red Queen (Helena Bonham Carter) with the aid of the Mad Hatter (Johnny Depp).

"Alice" will also be screened this week in 41 foreign territories; Japan, Spain, China and several other countries will get "Alice" in future months.