Oz the Great and Powerful

Caution: This Might Contain Spoilers!

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This film is based off L. Frank Baum's characters from the Oz novels. It is also a prequel to the 1939 MGM Film The Wizard of Oz, and the 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Oscar Diggs, Oz, works as a carnival magician. He escapes into a tornado that transports him into the land of Oz. He meets three witches, Theodora, Evanora, and Glinda. Oz is soon faced with a choice of destroying the wicked witch and saving the land of Oz, or finding a way back home.

This film was directed by Sam Raimi. This film isn't based directly off a novel. Instead it acts as a prequel to the novels, and establishes the characters in a different light. It also offers an explanation as to how the characters become who they became. The story becomes predictable, but it is full of childlike charm. The unfortunate part is that any mystery is discovered by knowing the character names. It can be hard to enjoy the movie since the characters aren't entirely likable. Unfortunately  this does keep true to the characters. There are also several cheesy over the top moments. It can be frightening to some children with moments that could make you jump, but it is family friendly. There are several adorable characters, and there is plenty of references to the original Wizard of Oz. It was unique to watch the screen go from standard to widescreen. It was also interesting to watch it begin in black and white and transfer to color like the 1939 film. There is a ton of computer animation in this film. It could have done well with less, but it does offer plenty of visual eye candy to audiences.

The cast worked well together. James Franco played the role of Oscar Diggs/Oz. He was good in his role. He did go over the top at moments, but he fit the character. Mila Kunis played the role of Theodora. She was over the top-especially when she turned into the Wicked witch. She tried too hard to imitate Margaret Hamilton-even in cackle. Rachel Weisz played the role of Evanora. She was good in her role, but she was obvious about her deception. Michelle Williams played the role of Glinda/Annie. She was good in her role. She kept true the over the top goodly character. Zach Braff voiced the character Frank. He was great in his role. He gave the film an unexpected humour. Joey King played and voiced the roles of China Girl/Girl in Wheelchair. She was great in her roles. She did appear slightly creepy as the girl in the wheelchair, but that was because of being over done with make-up. As the China Girl she was adorable.

I give this film 4 out of 5 stars! The characters might be unlikable, and it may be over the top, but it works. It is an entertaining film to watch.

Answer to last blog: Actor Nicholas Hoult, Jack the Giant Slayer, played the role of Hank McCoy/Beast in the film X-Men: First Class.

Que: What other film did actress Rachel Weisz also star in?

Casino Royale
Babel
The Fountain
Inside Man