In 1939 MGM Studios took viewers on an unforgettable journey to the merry old land of Oz. It was not for another forty-six years, however, that Hollywood returned to the Emerald City. 1985's cult classic Return to Oz transports viewers back to Oz for a whole new adventure. At once a celebration of L. Frank Baum's beloved series and a dark fantasy the likes of which only the 1980's could deliver, Return to Oz remains one of the most terrifying and thrilling adventures in family filmmaking.
 |
| Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows you're name... |
The story begins six months after Dorothy's return from Oz. Despite returning to Kansas she is haunted by her experiences and develops insomnia. Concerned for her health Aunt Em and Uncle Henry opt to seek psychiatric help for her and bring her to a nearby mental institution. After recounting her adventures in Oz the hospital staff diagnose her as suffering from mental illness and determine that the best course of treatment is electro-convulsive therapy. Before the treatment can begin, however, a storm arrives and the hospital is struck by lighting. In the ensuing chaos Dorothy escapes with another young patient. While being pursued by the hospital staff the girls are separated and Dorothy is knocked unconscious after she nearly drowns. When she regains consciousness she finds herself in Oz with her one of the chickens from her family's farm, Belina, at her side. While she is initially overjoyed she soon realizes that this is a very different Oz that she has returned to. In the months since her first adventure the land has fallen under the control of the wicked Gnome King who, along with his henchmen Princess Mombie and the Wheelers, rules Oz with an iron grip. It's up to Dorothy, Belina, and the friends that they meet along the way to stop the Gnome King and free the people of Oz.
In the lead-up to the film's release critics and audiences eagerly anticipated what they were sure would be a continuation of the 1939 classic. Unfortunately for them, the film derived its inspiration not from its iconic predecessor, but instead from the arguably darker, more mature, series of books upon which it is based. As a result, audiences and critics alike were dismayed by what they saw on screen. In the years since the film's release, however, it has gained a cult following with generations of children falling under its dark spell. While no film can compare with the 1939 juggernaut, the 1985 sequel makes for an engrossing and enchanting work of its own. Unlike its musical counterpart, Return to Oz relates a mature tale of the dangers of escapism, the oppression of conformity, and abuse of power through the lens of a fantastic adventure. As a result, the film aptly captures the eerie combination of wonder, imagination, and anxiety that define childhood. In this way, the film challenges young viewers by introducing them to weighty themes within the context of family friendly entertainment. Through this approach the film grows with its audience by offering an entertaining adventure to keep younger viewers engaged while raising vital questions about the world around us that they can grapple with as they grow older. For a film that will appeal to the minds as well as hearts of the whole family book a trip to Return to Oz.
 |
| I'm looking at the man in the mirror.... |
The film transports viewers to the wonder and magic of Oz thanks to the performances of its cast. Piper Laurie captures the world-weariness of overworked Aunt Em. Matt Clark aptly portrays the inner conflict of Uncle Henry. Emma Ridley perfectly captures the regal majesty of Empress Ozma in a performance that belies her young years. Lyle Conway imbues the Gump with warmth and humor. Brian Henson personifies childlike innocence in his charming turn as Jack Pumpkinhead. Sean Barret personifies courage as mechanical soldier Tik Tok. Pons Maar is nothing short of terrifying as both the sadistic nameless hospital assistant and the vicious leader of the wheelers. Jean Marsh steals each scene in which she appears as both the merciless witch Mombie and the hospital's callous head nurse. Denise Bryer lends gruff humor worthy of Thelma Ritter as Billina. Nicol Williamson aptly blends manipulative charm and menace as both the Gnome King and Doctor Worley. Fairuza Balk performs the Herculean task of stepping into Judy Garland's ruby slippers with a winning combination of innocence, sincerity, wonder, and infectious charm.
At once a celebration of the classic Oz books and a contemporary fantasy Return to Oz is a tribute to the power of imagination. The script blends history, whimsy, and wonder to relate a dark fantasy that viewers will be hard pressed to forget. The superb work of the cast brings the classic world of Oz to vibrant life with a dark, modern edge. Join Dorothy and Belina for the journey of a lifetime and Return to Oz.
 |
| Only the 80's could come up with this one |
No comments:
Post a Comment