Backdrop preview Dorothy & the Wizard in Oz backdrop
Dorothy & the Wizard in Oz

Dorothy & the Wizard in Oz (1993)

Jan 01, 1993 29m Fantasy Adventure

At the 1991 Winkie and Munchkin Conventions, part of the programs was the 1948 Capitol Records audio-only adaptation of “Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz”. Rather than just have people listen to it, Oz artist and animator Robert Roy MacVeigh provided a large number of watercolor paintings. To preserve MacVeigh’s wonderful slideshow, the presentation was put on videotape posthumously in 1993. In this adaptation Dorothy, the Wizard, cousin Zeb, Jim the Horse, and Dorothy’s cat, Eureka, have an adventure throughout some of the surrounding countries of Oz.

Directed by Robert Roy MacVeigh

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Robert Roy MacVeigh
Producer
  • R. Philip Marleau

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

Dorothy & the Wizard in Oz represents a fascinating example of Fantasy/Adventure 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 Robert Roy MacVeigh 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 1993, 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 Dorothy & the Wizard in Oz took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 29 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 64 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.

Historical Context

  • In 1993, when this film was released:
  • The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
  • The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Dorothy & the Wizard in 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 VeggieTales: The Wonderful Wizard of Ha's, which focuses more on action than character development, Dorothy & the Wizard in Oz subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Muppets' Wizard of Oz and Chaos explore similar territory, Dorothy & the Wizard in 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 bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: January 1, 1993
  • Runtime: 29m