Movie Review: Oz The Great and Powerful

Since 1900 when L. Frank Baum wrote The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, people have been fascinated with his magical world of witches and emerald cities. Most recently, Disney has adapted the story into a 3D experience called Oz The Great and Powerful. The film will be released in IMAX 3D, however the screening I attended was not in an IMAX theater.

Beginning in a black and white along with non-widescreen appearance we see Kansas in 1905. When our protagonist arrives in Oz, the screen slowly widens and becomes the colorful and magical land. It is here that the real adventure begins. Since this story is a prequel, a back story is necessary, however I felt that the beginning slightly dragged. Once we arrive in Oz, the adventure takes off and we learn how a man from Kansas becomes the Wonderful Wizard of Oz.

The cinematography was great and truly helped you feel emerged in the magical world. The 3D in the film was impressive and I feel that it was worth the price. Past films I have seen made me dizzy during action, however the director of Oz was able to give us a ride that was long enough to explore the world yet short enough to prevent that feeling of dizziness.

James Franco plays Oscar "Oz" Diggs, a magician with a traveling carnival. I thought the character was well developed and interesting to watch as he journeys from Kansas to Oz. Michelle Williams, as Glinda did a fabulous job. She played the part in a way that kept Glinda true to the character but still fresh and exciting. The only actor I didn't feel fit the roll was Mila Kunis. It felt like she was forcing it and not a natural fit for the character.

My personal opinion of this film is that it was a wonderful addition to the story of Oz. If you are a fan of The Wizard of Oz, you will like Oz The Great and Powerful. This story added depth to the characters but I did not feel that it strayed from the storyline. Since this is a prequel you do not need any knowledge of Dorothy, the Wicked Witch, or Oz himself to enjoy the film. For those who have seen the musical Wicked this story will give you a different on the witches, closer to the original storyline.

Oz the Great and Powerful will be officially released nation wide on March 8, 2013. A few theaters had advanced screenings for reward members. Check out my weekly post, Making Cents with Cori, on Cinemit for weekly specials on tickets and concessions. Since Oz The Great and Powerful is a Disney movie, save your ticket stubs so that you can earn points on Disney Movie Rewards.

Movie Rating for Oz the Great and Powerful

The passes for this pre-screening were won through Wired 96.5. Follow their Facebook page to attend free screenings near you. Check out my information post for more information about free movie screenings.