Review of Oz the Great and Powerful (2013) by Jason T — 06 Jun 2014
Where is that "clever wit" the description below the Tomatometer mentions? I don't think I experienced any of that when I was watching this movie. It must be in the director's cut because what I saw was cookie cutter Hollywood CGI overindulgence, shallow characterizations, and cliched scenarios.
Where do I start with this movie? First of all you have James Franco, who at first seems to display a huckster's swarm effectively but after a while seems to be grimacing at the camera. But is all fairness, the script doesn't do anyone any favors in this movie. The two sisters, Theodora and Evanora, apparently want control over the magical land of Oz but why are they already living in the palace of the Emerald City? Why are they waiting for this wizard of the prophecy? Why is Theodora all alone in the middle of a swamp when Oscar arrives? She's definitely not dressed for a camping trip with her massive spring hat and Easter Sunday outfit.
It only takes about 20 minutes into the movie to get CGI'd out. The movie goes out of it's way to throw computer generated junk at the screen whether it be gold coins or spears, it's all distracting. If you enjoy seeing well paid actors stare at a green screen in wonder while saying, "Wow," this movie is for you.
There is a "twist" at the end of the movie that is so obvious and telegraphed I didn't think the filmmakers really were treating it seriously until I realized the music was trying to coax me into this false manipulation. By the time the Star Wars style lightning battle occurs I'm just ready for this film to end.
In all fairness, the way the "Wizard's" origin story eventually develops is more interesting that the Wicked Witch's. The Wicked Witch of the West is such an iconic character in Hollywood history, so how does she go from a sweet, naive girl to one of the most feared individuals that haunts children's nightmares to this day?
Well, ready for this? Her sister tells her a lie and she eats an apple. Not exactly thrilling. Score: 4.
This review of Oz the Great and Powerful (2013) was written by Jason T on 06 Jun 2014.
Oz the Great and Powerful has generally received mixed reviews.
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