The emotionally charged "Oz the Great and Powerful" takes audiences on mystical journey through the land of Oz. with witches everywhere Oz, played by James Franco, journeys in the land of Oz to find purpose.
Oz the great and powerful starts off as a carnival magician who fails to astonish crowds but succeeds in hypnotizing women.
As Oz escapes from the carnival in a hot air balloon he is caught in a tornado which send him to the land of Oz.
In Oz he first encounters a ravishing young witch Theodora, played by Mila Kunis, who Oz quickly works his magic on.
Theodora tells Oz of a prophecy of the wizard who will have the same name as their kingdom and save them from the evil witch.
On the way to the kingdom Oz saves a flying monkey named Finley, voiced by Zach Braff, who in return vows to be his servant for life.
Arriving at the kingdom Evanora, played by Rachel Weisz, greets them and tricks Oz into going to hunt down the evil Glinda, played by Michelle Williams.
On his travels he encounters the adorable China girl, voiced by Joey King, who lies broken in a land of pottery that the evil flying monkeys have ravaged.
Stealing the movie is King who is amazingly comical and the most enjoyable character. From the moment China girl appears on screen she captures the hearts of audiences.
China girl along with Finley create the comical feel to the entire film and keep audiences glued to the screen. Braff provides a nervous feel to Finley while keeping him loyal and obedient to Oz.
Kunis delivers a fantastic performance full of emotion and passion. She collaborates well with Franco and then magnificently powers through performances alongside the rest of the cast.
The ending is spectacular and completes the story showing growth in every character and showing how Oz became the great and powerful.
I give this film a 4 out of 5 Popcorns. Oz could get irritating once in awhile, although that just may be the character they wanted, but the growth is apparent and well received. The best part of the film is the China girl and Finley who with their antics keep the film moving forward in a funny manner. "Oz the Great and Powerful" does make reference to "The Wizard of Oz" tying the films together but does so subtly.
"Oz the Great and Powerful" is out on DVD and Blu-Ray now.
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