OZ THE GREAT & POWERFUL
Directed by Sam Raimi (Spider-Man), Oz the Great and Powerful is both a prequel to L. Frank Baum’s celebrated children’s novel, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, and an origin tale for its titular character, the enigmatic ‘man behind the curtain’.
Portrayed by James Franco, Oscar ‘Oz’ Diggs is a charismatic if self-centred magician with a flair for theatrics. Inexplicably transported to a fantastical realm ruled by witches, Oscar receives an unexpected chance at redemption.
With its intoxicating visuals, kitsch aesthetic and camp humour, Oz the Great and Powerful certainly evokes the look and feel of its cinematic touchstone, The Wizard of Oz starring Judy Garland. But unlike that timeless classic, Raimi’s flick suffers from a half-baked plot low on dramatic tension. Furthermore, Mila Kunis, Rachel Weisz and Michelle Williams underwhelm in pivotal roles – burdened with dismal dialogue, the otherwise consummate actresses appear strangely disinterested here.
Fortunately, Danny Elfman’s musical score (a potent cocktail of melodrama and gothic whimsy) and Franco’s loose, playful performance benefit proceedings immensely, as do a handful of inspired creature characters. Despite its saving graces, Oz the Great and Powerful is too much trick and not enough magic. (JH) **1/2
