As we have all seen during our childhood, The Wizard of Oz, is a classic movie about love, courage, and knowing that there is no place like home. In this prequel to that wonderful childhood memory, we learn how it all began as the title mentions. Oscar “OZ” Diggs (played by James Franco) is a simple circus magician and after a small altercation he is transported into the land of OZ. He meets the lovely witch Theodora (played by Mila Kunis) as well as the other witches, Glinda (played by Michelle Williams) and Evanora (played by Rachel Weisz). OZ is sent on a grueling and dangerous journey to save the land of OZ and become their king.
The story line is truly wonderful. The way that this film was directed and written (directed by Sam Raimi and written by David Lindsay-Abaire, Mitchell Kapner) just had me wanted more. The story unfolded and flowed in a perfect fluid motion. This film had its share of comedy as well so don’t think that it’s all seriousness and pretty colors. Not only is the story phenomenal, the visual effects are the best I’ve seen by far. The colors, the way everything moves fluidly, you can’t tell what is real and what is computer generated. The emerald city has a beautiful green glow; the yellow brick road is wonderfully colored. Don’t get me started on the crystal flowers.
This film is overall one of the best movies to be released this year by far. Story, visuals and the fact that it brings us all a great feeling of nostalgia, OZ: The Great & Powerful is a must see for everyone who has seen the original movie. It’s also a great date movie in case you didn’t know what movie to watch. Without giving away too much of the movie in this review as I believe that everyone should go see it for themselves, I award this movie a perfect 5 stars out of 5.