The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Raiting: 
8,1 /10
Genre: Fantasy
Director: Victor Fleming
Stars: Judy Garland, Frank Morgan and Ray Bolger
Country: United States
Release date: 15 August 1939
Length: 102 minutes
"The Wizard of Oz", directed by Victor Fleming and released in 1939, is a beloved musical fantasy film that has captured the hearts of audiences for generations. The film opens in Kansas, a grayscale world where young Dorothy Gale, played by Judy Garland, lives on a farm with her Aunt Em and Uncle Henry. After a nasty encounter with her neighbor, Miss Gulch, who wants to take away her cherished dog, Toto, Dorothy dreams of a place "over the rainbow" where troubles melt away.
When a powerful tornado strikes, Dorothy seeks shelter in her house but is knocked unconscious by a flying window. She awakens to find herself, along with her house—and Toto, too—transported to the vibrant, Technicolor world of Oz. Her house has landed on the Wicked Witch of the East, killing her and freeing the Munchkins who lived in fear of the witch. As thanks, the Good Witch of the North, Glinda, gifts Dorothy the magical ruby slippers and advises her to follow the Yellow Brick Road to the Emerald City, where the Wizard of Oz can help her return home.
Along the way, Dorothy befriends three memorable characters who also seek the Wizard's help: the Scarecrow, who desires a brain; the Tin Man, who longs for a heart; and the Cowardly Lion, who desperately wants courage. Together, they face various challenges, including the wrath of the Wicked Witch of the West, who seeks revenge for her sister's death and desires the ruby slippers' power.
After many trials and tribulations, including a trek through a poppy field and a rescue mission in the witch's castle, the group finally reaches the Emerald City. The Wizard initially appears as a formidable and powerful figure, but he turns out to be an ordinary man from Kansas, using elaborate effects to appear magical. He still grants the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Lion their wishes by helping them see that they already possess the qualities they've been seeking. For Dorothy, he offers a ride back to Kansas in his hot air balloon, but when Toto chases a cat, Dorothy misses the departure.
Glinda reappears and reveals that Dorothy has had the power to return home all along—by simply clicking her heels together three times and repeating, "There's no place like home." Dorothy follows Glinda's instructions, waking up back in Kansas surrounded by her family and friends, with the realization that her adventure in Oz was a dream influenced by her real-life experiences and desires. The film concludes with Dorothy expressing a newfound appreciation for her home and life, affirming the timeless message that happiness is not a place, but a state of being within oneself.
Top cast - The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Trailer - The Wizard of Oz (1939)
"The Wizard of Oz", directed by Victor Fleming and released in 1939, is an enduring classic that transcends time with its magical storytelling, memorable characters, and iconic music. The film, based on L. Frank Baum's novel, is a technicolor marvel that was ahead of its time, enchanting both children and adults with its vivid portrayal of the fantastical land of Oz and the heartwarming tale of Dorothy Gale's journey.
Judy Garland's portrayal of Dorothy is both innocent and spirited, bringing to life the character's sense of wonder and determination. Her rendition of "Over the Rainbow" is hauntingly beautiful and has become one of the most famous songs in cinema history. The supporting cast, including Ray Bolger as the Scarecrow, Jack Haley as the Tin Man, and Bert Lahr as the Cowardly Lion, each add their unique charm and humor to the film, creating a dynamic ensemble that resonates with viewers. Margaret Hamilton's performance as the Wicked Witch of the West is delightfully terrifying, making her one of the most memorable villains on the silver screen.
The innovative use of Technicolor in "The Wizard of Oz" is one of the film's most striking features. The transition from the sepia-toned Kansas to the vibrant land of Oz is a cinematic moment of pure magic. The film's set design and special effects, though created with 1930s technology, still hold up today, transporting audiences to a world filled with wonder, witches, and talking animals. The costume design, especially the ruby slippers, has become an iconic piece of film history.
One of the most remarkable aspects of "The Wizard of Oz" is its timeless appeal. The underlying themes of friendship, bravery, intelligence, and the quest for one's heart's desires are universal. The message that "there's no place like home" resonates with audiences, reminding us of the importance of family and the comforts of our own backyard. The film's ability to appeal to both children and adults alike, offering layers of meaning that can be appreciated at different ages, is a testament to its masterful storytelling.
In conclusion, "The Wizard of Oz" is not just a movie but a piece of cinematic history that continues to live in the hearts of those who watch it. Its legacy is evident in its enduring popularity, the countless adaptations it has inspired, and its status as a cultural touchstone. It's a film that reminds us that sometimes, the greatest adventures can lead us to discover that everything we were searching for was right in front of us all along. For its technical achievements, unforgettable music, and the joy it has brought to generations of viewers, "The Wizard of Oz" remains a beloved masterpiece that will continue to be cherished for many years to come.