Review of Legends of Oz: Dorothy's Return (2014) by David Y — 10 May 2014

I've seen this film now multiple times, so I am actually qualified to give an opinion, unlike most of the negative "reviewers" who have NOT EVEN SEEN THE FILM.

In the first scene of the film the now brilliant scarecrow explains that time passes more quickly in Oz than in Kansas. So many years have passed in Oz, but for Dorothy it will seem like only a few days have passed since she left Oz. Dorothy is about to return to an Oz which is MUCH DIFFERENT (that is part of the story and is not supposed to be just like the old Oz from the original film. Remember it is many years later in Oz). This is not an animated version of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz -- it is not a copy of anything. It has nothing to do with Wicked or any of the previous Oz movies.

Legends of Oz is an original NEW STORY by Roger S. Baum -- the great-grandson of L. Frank Baum who authored The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The musical soundtrack consists of all original songs composed for the film. And there are several songs that are very catchy.

The animation is great. I liked it better than some of the other animated movies made by major studios that I have recently viewed. The trailer does not do justice to the animation of the entire movie. I encourage you to see the film for yourself to judge the animation.

The characters are real and lovable. Their teamwork is admirable as they overcome the various plot conflicts. I was moved emotionally in several touching scenes.

I give Legends of Oz 5 stars. I cannot wait for the DVD release so I can watch parts over and over. Bring on the sequel.