IMAX 3D Wizard of Oz

[Scary Terry]

Here are the comments I posted on my facebook page after seeing the IMAX 3D version of Wizard of Oz -- now showing at select IMAX theaters (for one week only).


I'm usually the sort of film purist who doesn't want them messing around with the classics -- but the 3D conversion on this is so good (and I have NO idea how the hell they do that!) -- and the restored/newly struck print from the original technicolor negative is so gorgeous, that I give this my highest recommendation. I've lost count of how many times I've seen Wizard of Oz -- from B&W broadcast viewings as a kid to home DVD viewings on the flatscreen -- but this was the first time I felt like I was really along for the ride. The Imax 3D truly is immersive and amplifies the viewing experience. Because of that, I'd caution folks about taking very young children. What's mildly scary on your TV at home is terrifying here -- the tornado sequence is especially strong.

That said -- if you love this movie, if you're a classic movie fan -- if you really like 3D -- this is a MUST see. And don't wait for the home 3D disc -- see it in the theater. I know it's pricey -- I winced at my ticket price -- but it's totally worth it. The huge screen and great sound can't be replicated at home. If circumstances allowed, I'd just live in the theater this whole darn week. I suspect some fans will do that.

Despite having seen theatrical screenings in the past, I still noticed things I'd never seen before -- both in the visuals and the performances -- Prof. Miracle's lucky horseshoe tie tack, Dorothy's reflection in the Witch's crystal ball (!) -- and how cheap and bad the Scarecrow's gun prop is (yes, he's packing heat in the Haunted Forest sequence). Judy's freckles! Never before caught that Judy Garland almost laughs at Bert Lahr during the scene after slapping him -- she catches herself and gets back in character fast -- but the moment is there. Despite that one moment that took me out of the "reality" of the film, the Imax 3D mostly pulled me into the film and made it seem more "real" than ever.

One thing I wondered about going in, was how they'd handle some of the obviously painted flat backgrounds. They added depth to them. Forced perspective becomes true perspective. And it looks great, and lends a far greater sense of space and reality to the scenes. No longer are you on a soundstage, watching actors play at being in Oz -- you are IN Oz.

For those who don't care about 3D, or can't see it -- the good news is -- there is now a stunning, flawless, new transfer that will be available on 2D Bluray soon. This is a win for everybody.

One of the best movie going experiences of my life.

[Flower]

I don't see it advertised but will keep my eye out for it .. sounds like great fun.  I remember when it was shown yearly but don't remember if it was around Easter or Thanksgiving.  I do remember that "The Miracle on 34th Street' was shown on Thanksgiving Day for years.

Great review ... 

[Pauspy]

Thanks for the awesome review terry. I'm sure I would have just dismissed this as another Hollywood cash grab with no redeeming qualities, but now I'm really interested in seeing it.

[Count_Zirock]

I saw the '70s theatrical re-release, and remember how impressive that was. IMAX 3D?! Must be mind-blowing!

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[Count_Zirock]

A friend of mine e-mailed me tonight.

Saw The Wizard of Oz today on the 75th Anniversary. In 3D IMAX. Absolutely stunning to watch. There are certain scenes that work in 3D really well, but since it wasn't shot for 3D, nothing is obtrusive. It looks very natural. The Wicked Witch seems to come off best, especially when she's pointing her finger. There's a certain shot of the flying monkeys...when they're flying toward the camera seen through the trees..that's spectacular for a few seconds. But what amazed me more than the 3D conversion is how crystal clear and sharp the picture is in the IMAX format. I saw it on a flat IMAX screen, not a dome. But it was truly awesome. Paid $15 to see it..ordered in advance just in case, since it's only out for a week. $13 plus $2 fee. Worth every cent.

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[Scary Terry]

Your friend is right, Count. I can't stop thinking about it -- would love to get back to the theater and see it one more time before it is gone, but don't know if my schedule will allow.