Cast
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Sid Caesar
as Wizard / Mince Pie U.N. Krust / Narrator (voice)
Mischa Bond
as Dorothy (voice)
Robert Ridgely
as Jack Pumpkinhead / Tyrone the Terrible Toy Tinkerer (voice)
Joan Gerber
as Tic Toc / Ozma (voice)
Frank Nelson
as Jack, the Hungry Tiger (voice)
Lurene Tuttle
as Aunt Em (voice)
Charles Woolf
as Uncle Henry (voice)
Maitzi Morgan
as (voice)
Julie Cohen
as (voice)
Crew
Director
- Charles Swenson
- Fred Wolf
Writer
- Romeo Muller
Producer
- Tomoo Fukumoto
- Romeo Muller
- Fred Wolf
- Charles Swenson
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Thanksgiving in the Land of Oz represents a fascinating example of Fantasy/Family/TV Movie/Animation cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Charles Swenson brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1980, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Thanksgiving in the Land of Oz took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 25 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 83 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1980, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Thanksgiving in the Land of Oz shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Addams Family Values, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Thanksgiving in the Land of Oz offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Winnie the Pooh: Seasons of Giving and The Wizard of Oz in Concert: Dreams Come True explore similar territory, Thanksgiving in the Land of Oz stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 25, 1980
- Runtime: 25m
