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The Wizard Of Oz
Title
Review What can one say that would even come close to giving proper homage to the show, The Wizard Of Oz? What can be said that hasn’t been said a hundred, a thousand, or a million times over the past 70 years? To this day, it still amazes me that the original story was written by L. Frank Baum some 109 year ago, or that it remains so fresh and alive today as the day it was written. To this day, it still amazes me how the film transcends both time and technology and remains forever, a masterpiece! In 1939, the technology to create such masterpieces as this was very limited. Most of the effects were tedious, time consuming, and very costly. The film itself cost nearly 3 million dollars causing MGM to barely break even on its first release. During it’s re-release in 1947, however, it finally received a nice profit. But the real profits and icon status didn’t begin until 1956 when MGM began airing the film on television as an annual event. (That’s actually how I got hooked on the show myself. Each year, I looked forward to the televised version of the book, and each year I found myself mesmerized by the story, the characters, the magic.) Like many book to film versions, the screenwriters have taken liberty to alter the book’s original plot—to make Oz a place only found in dreams, thus creating a more magical, universal appeal. Some of the characters and scenes were also altered to move the plot along and keep the public entertained. And some scenes were omitted for no other reason than budget. The story opens in black and white (or sepia in the new version) to reflect the dreary, slow-paced lifestyle of Kansas. Dorothy is contemplating the meaning of life and sharing her desire to have her life mean more than just working the farm and doing the same mundane tasks day after day. She thinks about leaving the farm and starting an adventure of her own, but quickly puts the thought right out of her mind…that is, until a mean neighbor threatens to put her dog, Toto, to sleep. Fearing for her beloved dog’s life, Dorothy decides it’s high time to run away from home and start her new adventure. But no sooner does she leave the protection of her family and friends does a tornado hit, transporting Dorothy, along with Toto (and the audience), to a Technicolored world complete with Munchkins, wicked witches, flying monkeys, talking scarecrows, cowardly lions, and walking tin men. Yet, as much as Dorothy loves the beauty of the landscape, the wonder of Oz, and the fun-loving nature of its citizens, she soon realizes that there truly is no place like home where she can share her life with those that matter most to her and so begins her journey… In the 70th Anniversary Ultimate Collector’s Edition, you get so much that you can literally spend a week going over all the material. But the UltraResolution restoration of the original film is still—and always will be—the best part of this package! Next up would have to be the documentary, hosted by Angela Lansbury, followed by Campaign Book, then the watch, and finally, the Behind The Curtains Book. In the 70th Anniversary Ultimate Collector’s Edition, you get:
If you have never seen The Wizard of Oz, or watched it ages ago, I encourage you to pick up a copy today! You will be amazed at how much the restoration of this version has revitalized the film. Order The Wizard Of Oz  Today!
Disclosure: The reviewer received a complimentary copy of the DVD to review. About The Author Alyice Edrich is a freelance writer, mixed media artist, and aspiring photographer. She enjoys creating things that bring joy to others. Visit her blog, Coming Home, to check out her latest art. Or stop by her resume site, AlyiceEdrich.net to learn how you can hire her for your next project. Reprint Rights This article may NOT be reprinted without monetary compensation and written permission from the author. For reprint rights or comments/questions about this article, please contact the author. |
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