There have been times when an old classic that everyone hailed as a great movie failed to impress me. Not because those movies were bad or anything. It’s just that old movies tend to be slow, the editing choppy and hence it becomes a drag to watch and really tests your patience. One such movie that I heard a lot about but turned out to be drag was “Vertigo“. It is a good movie but not the classic that people often associate it with. But then again it’s just my personal opinion.
So I was not sure if the much talked about movie “The Wizard of Oz” that was released 80 years back in 1939 would be something I would like or it would turn out to be the experience similar to “Vertigo“.
But I am glad I was wrong. The Wizard of Oz is definitely one of a kind movie and is rightfully a true classic.
I had heard a lot about wizard of Oz but a movie released in 1939 was hardly expecting anything much
But I was surprised after watching it. Below is what impressed me about the movie
Story
The story is pretty simple. Dorothy gets caught in the storm that uproots her home takes her to a wonderland full of colorful characters. She needs to find her way back home while staying away from the witch of the north.
The story is just like any other child’s fantasy stories we know. But the innocence and honesty of this story is what works beautifully. The story also teaches important lessons like friendship, bravery, etc.
Characters
This is where the movie just shines. Each and every character is very unique and has a unique quirk.
For example, the scarecrow doesn’t have a brain and hence desire to have it one day but amusingly comes up with great ideas during the crisis
Similarly, the character Tin Man whom Dorothy rescues does not have a heart and desires to have one. Then there is a character who is a lion but lacks courage and desires to have it one day.
Even the characters with less screen time entertain you like the munchkins in the who dance and perform to welcome Dorothy who accidentally killed the wicked witch of the east.
Songs
Songs are again one of the best I have heard in a feature film. “Over the Rainbow” song sung by Judy garland who plays Dorothy is so beautiful, it rightfully won the academy award for the best song. Even other songs are beautiful and just makes the movie that much interesting to watch.
Sets
This movie of 1939 has the sets so elaborate and beautiful that it’s hard to believe this is an 80-year-old movie. The Munchkin Land, the emerald city are all colorful and beautiful. Even the costumes are well thought out and look amazing. The tin man looks to be made of tin while the scarecrow looks to be made of twigs. Similarly, the cowardly lion’s costume looks superb.
Interesting Trivia: The COWARDLY LION costume weighed around a ton and was made of real lion fur.Â
Simple story, interesting characters, great sets, and superb songs make this rightfully a Hollywood classic.Â
Even in 2019, this movie is interesting and engaging to watch and there will be a huge smile on your face when you finish this movie. You will be tempted to watch it again and again to experience this charming world.
The Wizard of Oz is a must-watch.Â
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