Oz the Great and Powerful (3D IMAX), 2013

Director: Sam Raimi (Spider-Man and Evil Dead Trilogies)

Starring: James Franco, Mila Kunis, Rachel Weisz, Michelle Williams

Plot: Magician, lothario and circus conman Oscar, or ‘Oz’ (Franco), tries to escape his personal failings and poor lot in life on an air balloon, but is instead transported via a hurricane to L. Frank Baum’s magical world of Oz, where he must face down his flaws and discover his virtues.

Highlight: In 2009, James Cameron’s Avatar set a ridiculously high new standard of epic 3D world-building up to which Sam Raimi’s Oz’ holds itself beautifully.  Luxurious CGI backdrops married with thrilling visual flourishes immerse you in this re-imagined Land of Oz and transform a winking but faithful homage to The Wizard of Oz into a mesmerising thrill-ride.

Lowlight: If you’re not a fan of Raimi-favourite James Franco (or you’re still cringing from his 2011 Oscars hosting debacle) be aware that he carries the entire film on his shoulders, at times solely interacting with 100% animated – albeit handsomely animated – fantasy characters.  This being Sam Raimi there are also a few genuine scares of course, which may alarm the young ‘uns/softies.

Summary: Yet another exciting 3D fantasy spectacular for the whole family!  Oz also looks fantastic in 2D and stays true to Baum’s grand tradition of adventure storytelling with a heart, with parallel characters from Oscar’s black and white and 4:3 ‘real’ life also represented in the neatly full colour, 3D and widescreen world of Oz.  Funny visual and dialogue gags, a rug-pulling script that keeps you guessing, and great supporting characters – particularly the ultra-cute China Girl – all ably juggled by the great Sam Raimi make this essential cinema viewing.  Catch it before it’s out on Blu Ray (in about three days probably)…

Rating: 4/5

Tags: Oz the Great and Powerful 3D, IMAX, 2013, Sam Raimi, Spider-Man, Evil Dead, James Franco, Mila Kunis, Rachel Weisz, Michelle Williams