Director: Sam Raimi
Starring: James Franco, Mila Kunis, Rachel Weisz, Michelle Williams, Zach Braff
Certificate: PG
Running Time: 130 minutes
Extras: Walt Disney And The Road To Oz, “My Journey In Oz” By James Franco, China Girl And The Suspension Of Disbelief, Before Your Very Eyes: From Kansas To Oz, Mila’s Metamorphosis, Mr. Elfman’s Musical Concoctions, Blooper
Great and Powerful in a film title are dangerous words especially if they’re preceded by Oz. A prequel to the loved and cherished WIZARD OF OZ (1939) this Oz lacks the charm, humour, warmth and heart that has made Judy Garland’s Dorothy, and others, an enduring treat. One could even say OZ THE GREAT AND POWERFUL is closer to an endurance.
Like WIZARD OF OZ, OZ THE GREAT AND POWERFUL begins in a Kansas yet to become technicolor. Into a 4:3 carnival we are thrown where me meet a truly hideous, obnoxious, chauvinistic, egotist whom we are meant to cheer on for the next 130 minutes. Yes, this Wizard (Franco) is a bad sort and one you will likely find to your distaste. In fact, the film is full of characters either displaying questionable motives, or who are just unpleasant. Fortunately two CGI characters add a bit of fun and heart but this adds to the problems. Sam Raimi has created a world of lavish colours and beauty, but in doing so has alienated the actors on-screen; Michelle Williams and Rachel Weisz, two accomplished actresses, are reduced to staring in wonder at what was once a tennis ball, or waving their arm unconvincingly as another tennis ball flies past. Nothing in Raimi’s Oz looks or feels real so how are we expected to care?
In addition to issues with presentation, acting, and character, OZ THE GREAT AND POWERFUL’s story is meandering at best. Based on L.Frank Baum’s stories, the tale has a clear beginning and middle but its third act feels tacked on, tired and downright dull. Emotionally the film cannot connect with the audience, as opposed to Disney’s previous great works that have made pen and paper or CGI real to the viewer. It’s not all bad from Uncle Walt’s point of view though as there is a modicum of racism through stereotyped characters.
If beauty were a necessity for enjoyment OZ THE GREAT AND POWERFUL would hit the mark. Sadly for Sam et al. much more is needed and this fails to deliver on any level past tedium. The extras add some class to the release but you’ll still be left scratching your head asking OZ THE GREAT AND POWERFUL? More like Oz The Sexist and Dull.
OZ THE GREAT AND POWERFUL is available on Disney Blu-ray and DVD 1st July.
Check out this brand-new clip below:
OZ THE GREAT AND POWERFUL IS AVAILABLE TO OWN ON DISNEY BLU-RAY™, 3D BLU-RAY, DVD AND DIGITAL DOWNLOAD FROM 1 JULY
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