OZ THE GREAT AND POWERFUL
Over a century has passed since L. Frank Baum originally published his children's book The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, yet this mythical land remains a popular topic of fascination for creative spirits everywhere. The legendary Wizard and his beloved Emerald City have been the source of multiple film, stage, and literary adaptations—ones that delve deeper into the world of Oz than even Baum himself ever did. They've created new, exciting origins for some of the secondary characters from the original text—allowing them to possess just as much value and courage as any of the protagonists. It is difficult to capture another's character in one's own work and still maintain one's own vision. Director Sam Raimi does so almost effortlessly in Oz the Great and Powerful, the prequel to the 1939 classic, The Wizard of Oz.
Raimi's film tells the story of Oscar Diggs (James Franco), an ordinary man who is prophesized to defeat an evil witch and become the greatest wizard the people of Oz have ever known. Raimi's directing is well-suited for this project and aids in the beautiful cinematography used throughout the film. However, his direction seems unable to help certain actors and actresses make the most of their roles, instead enabling them to appear nonchalant and out of place in front of the camera.
Raimi's use of wide shots is more beneficial in this film than any of his other works. They allow audiences to truly see the masterful computer generated images (CGI) used to transport audiences from movie theaters to the mysterious but enticing Land of Oz. Raimi makes sure to include nods to the 1939 film and original book, such as classic elements like the yellow brick road and the red poppy field. It is Raimi's interpretation of the Emerald City that truly allows his direction to shine—simultaneously echoing the 1939 film's memorable depiction of the city but adding his own elements of glamorous realism that make the city tangible for the viewer. The city maintains that classic green coloring, but due to advances in special effects and a large budget, Raimi manages to portray the dark interiors of the buildings and capture what the entire city looks like from a balcony view. The cityscape is breathtaking—depicting what any modern city looks like in today's world and allowing audiences to connect to the film. Raimi's panning shots and angles allow for the masterful CGI to become the central focus of the film as opposed to the actors, who are instead utilized to emphasize the beautiful and majestic backdrop behind them. Raimi's use of camera angles and wide shots depicts the characters as small in comparison to their surroundings—capturing their amazement and wonder at the Land of Oz and essentially echoing the audience's own appreciation for the special effects.
Given Raimi's focus being on scenery, one may wonder if that is why some of the performances are so lackluster, predominately Mila Kunis as Theodora the Good. Kunis does not seem all that invested in the character for more than half of the film—often delivering her lines like a high schooler in her first play. Kunis comes off as bizarre and out of place, especially in comparison to James Franco, Michelle Williams, and Rachel Weisz. Franco truly captures the arrogant yet caring attitude of Oscar Diggs, creating a believable transition from conman to Wizard that audiences become invested in and root for. Williams does not disappoint as Glinda, portraying her as a strong, young woman leading her people against the forces of evil. The depiction is unique and truly inspiring. The natural chemistry between Franco and Williams creates a believable dynamic that sparks a connection with the audience. Rachel Weisz gives the best performance in the movie as Evanora, truly the wickedest witch in the land. Weisz truly sells her performance as a brilliantly cunning woman audiences cannot help but love.
Oz the Great and Powerful is a wonderful film for all audiences, young and old alike. While it essentially serves as a prequel to the 1939 film, Raimi's production can stand on its own as a truly beautiful and captivating production. The cinematography transports audiences to the Land of Oz, while the characters guide them through the twists and turns. With the exception of Kunis, the actors all seem to believe in their roles and become a source of entertainment and inspiration for audience members. A delightfully entertaining film, Oz the Great and Powerful lives up to its name.
View the Oz the Great and Powerful Trailer
Kate Hummel is a senior English major at Cabrini University. She has been writing, both scholastically and creatively, for over eighteen years and enjoys reading Faulkner novels and watching James Franco films.
