Return to Oz is a film that deserves more attention than it gets, and this film finally gave it some of that well deserved attention. It centers around a nice variety of fans who give their own views on the film, both what makes it work and what doesn't. It's a very honest approach that sheds all the reality of how the film came to be and how and why it met it's demise with the box office. It is inter-cut with some nice footage of scenes from the film, and other films, and even some behind the scenes material from a rare documentary. The only thing that could have possibly made it a further joy to watch would have been to get someone involved in the film to have participated, as hard as that would have most certainly been. As it is, it is a great documentary on the film from a fan perspective, much akin to something like "Indyfans" or "Trekkies". I'm glad Return To Oz has something like this!
3 Reviews
The Joy that Got Away
Zartonis23 March 2010
This documentary provides many behind-the-scenes details that watchers of Return to Oz undoubtedly thirst for. It contains a very interesting interview with Oz historian John Fricke, who provides a great centerpiece for the documentary with his endless knowledge about all things Oz. The documentary also contains interviews with numerous fans of the film, who often have very interesting and thoughtful opinions on the work. The documentary also deals with the constant change in management at Disney, and how this may have affected the film. Overall the documentary is very nicely done, and I highly recommend it to anyone.
Return to Oz
allison_terry1 March 2010
Warning: Spoilers
This documentary is a wonderful guide/behind the scenes look at the making of "Return to Oz". Being an avid fan of the movie I try to find "new" stuff on the film, even if it is a few minute details. Disney produced a documentary on the film around the same time the film was produced in 1985 and it gave many behind the scenes looks at how the special effects were done, which is wonderful, but the story behind closed doors about the struggles to get the film produced, the changing CEOs of Disney and their opposition to the film as well as the commentary of fans of the film is not seen in the Disney documentary. It's exciting to hear people reminisce about a beloved film and you find yourself reminiscing right along with them. Also John Fricke, an Oz historian gives his opinions on the film and is very insightful on Disney's take on Baum's books. This is a must-see for every "Return to Oz" fan.
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