Oz the Great and Powerful (2013)
When you watch this adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s classic story, keep in mind that it’s not the same as the Judy Garland version. The titles are similar, but this one isn’t about Dorothy getting swept away in a tornado; it’s about the wizard. Before he was great and powerful, he was just a man trying to gain a little respect and adoration. Working rather unsuccessfully in a circus has left him disappointed, since he knows that had he made different choices, he could have had an entirely different life. If there’s anyone who can show disappointment and a belief that he could have been better, it’s James Franco. Perfectly cast and giving an exposing and poignant performance, he shines in this entertaining big-budget Disney adventure flick.
There’s so much to appreciate in this movie, from the beautiful visuals to the detailed screenplay, that took a huge chance on remaking a beloved classic. I loved it and was only left me with one letdown: why didn’t Michelle Williams try to alter her voice to sound like Billie Burke? Mila Kunis showed her respect for her predecessor Margaret Hamilton, but Billie Burke’s voice was one of the most memorable in the entire movie. Her high-pitched, fairy-like wobble was just as imitated as Frank Morgan’s bumbling. James Franco’s bumble-free performance was understandable because he wasn’t in a constant state of nerves as a visitor threatened to expose his secret, but Glinda should have sounded like Glinda.
It’s risky to make a prequel about a beloved story, since added plot points might disappoint fans or create continuity issues. Thankfully, this one doesn’t disappoint. Personally, I think it was a smart move of screenwriters David Lindsay-Abaire and Mitchell Kapner not to include Dorothy in their prequel. By featuring the wizard as a young man, there’s very little opportunity for audiences to find discrepancies with the 1939 film. As it is, there are cute little touches that foreshadow the earlier film’s events, like little cameos of the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion. I love the great tie-ins of the wizard’s character that help explain how and why he does everything in the 1939 story. Since he has a circus background, he knows how to fool audiences with “smoke and mirrors” techniques to make it appear he’s performing great feats. It’s a great touch, and while most of the plot follows his involvement with the three witches of Oz—played by Michelle Williams, Rachel Weisz, and Mila Kunis—I was far more captivated by learning his backstory and motivations. Many viewers will be awed by the special effects, makeup, and lovely costumes as they dive into the wonderful world of Oz, but I enjoyed watching a man find his potential as he’s given a fresh start in a new place.
Since this was a Disney movie, there were tons of advertising and merchandise connected with the opening. I’m a great example that their campaign worked: Not only did I purchase the entire nail polish line that was introduced, but it was the nail polish that got me to go see the movie in theaters!
DLM Warning: If you suffer from vertigo or dizzy spells, like my mom does, this movie might not be your friend. During the tornado scene, there are some spinning camera movements that will make you sick. In other words, “Don’t Look, Mom!”
More James Franco movies here!
Be sure to check out Hot Toasty Rag's review of 1939's The Wizard of Oz here!
There’s so much to appreciate in this movie, from the beautiful visuals to the detailed screenplay, that took a huge chance on remaking a beloved classic. I loved it and was only left me with one letdown: why didn’t Michelle Williams try to alter her voice to sound like Billie Burke? Mila Kunis showed her respect for her predecessor Margaret Hamilton, but Billie Burke’s voice was one of the most memorable in the entire movie. Her high-pitched, fairy-like wobble was just as imitated as Frank Morgan’s bumbling. James Franco’s bumble-free performance was understandable because he wasn’t in a constant state of nerves as a visitor threatened to expose his secret, but Glinda should have sounded like Glinda.
It’s risky to make a prequel about a beloved story, since added plot points might disappoint fans or create continuity issues. Thankfully, this one doesn’t disappoint. Personally, I think it was a smart move of screenwriters David Lindsay-Abaire and Mitchell Kapner not to include Dorothy in their prequel. By featuring the wizard as a young man, there’s very little opportunity for audiences to find discrepancies with the 1939 film. As it is, there are cute little touches that foreshadow the earlier film’s events, like little cameos of the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion. I love the great tie-ins of the wizard’s character that help explain how and why he does everything in the 1939 story. Since he has a circus background, he knows how to fool audiences with “smoke and mirrors” techniques to make it appear he’s performing great feats. It’s a great touch, and while most of the plot follows his involvement with the three witches of Oz—played by Michelle Williams, Rachel Weisz, and Mila Kunis—I was far more captivated by learning his backstory and motivations. Many viewers will be awed by the special effects, makeup, and lovely costumes as they dive into the wonderful world of Oz, but I enjoyed watching a man find his potential as he’s given a fresh start in a new place.
Since this was a Disney movie, there were tons of advertising and merchandise connected with the opening. I’m a great example that their campaign worked: Not only did I purchase the entire nail polish line that was introduced, but it was the nail polish that got me to go see the movie in theaters!
DLM Warning: If you suffer from vertigo or dizzy spells, like my mom does, this movie might not be your friend. During the tornado scene, there are some spinning camera movements that will make you sick. In other words, “Don’t Look, Mom!”
More James Franco movies here!
Be sure to check out Hot Toasty Rag's review of 1939's The Wizard of Oz here!