Review of The Wiz (1978) by Gary Arnold for Washington Post — 10 Nov 1984
The movie has great moments and a lot of life, sensational special effects and costumes, and Ross, Jackson, and Russell. Why doesn't it involve us as deeply as The Wizard of Oz? Maybe because it hedges its bets by wanting to be sophisticated and universal, childlike and knowing, appealing to both a mass audience and to media insiders.
The Wizard of Oz went flat-out for the heart of its story; there are times whenThe Wiz has just a touch too much calculation.
You can read the full review where it was originally posted online.
This review of The Wiz (1978) was written by Gary Arnold and published by Washington Post on 10 Nov 1984.
The Wiz has generally received mixed reviews.
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