My Top 10 Favorite Movies of 1996 – The Year I fell in Love with the Movie Theater

  I was born in the year 1991, and while I’d been introduced to the movie theater beforehand, it was the year 1996 that I remember really falling in love with the thrill of seeing new movies on a big screen. 

Most critics of the time cited 1996 as a year when movies went downhill for the rest of the decade, but for me, it remains a sentimental and special time. Some of my earliest childhood theater going memories were from seeing family films that year, including “Matilda”, “Fly Away Home”, “101 Dalmatians” and “Muppet Treasure Island”. It was also the year that original movies like “Scream” and “Mission Impossible” launched major franchises that are still going strong today. 

Lastly, the year had its share of acclaimed stand-alone pictures, including “Jerry Maguire”, and “The English Patient”, which won Best Picture. So, I felt the time was right to stop and rank my own personal, top 10 favorite movies of the year 1996. This list isn’t based on any kind of objective quality, and it’s simply the films that I made the biggest connections to from this year.

 

#10 “The Crucible” 

Arthur Miller’s landmark play was brought to the big screen with pristine talent both in front of and behind the camera. Set in the dark ages of the 1600’s, the Salem witch trials are in full affect, and a local group of girls begin spinning yarns around innocent towns folk, who are in turn falsely accused of witchcraft. It’s a disturbing look back at this grim piece of history, and the cast more than carry the film. Both Winona Ryder and Daniel Day-Lewis are especially respectful in their leading roles, and Nicholas Hytner’s direction is on point. 

Some have criticized this film for being too straightforward an adaptation of the source material without any distinct merits of its own, but I felt it hit the point in an effective and memorable presentation. Even though nothing supernatural happens in the picture, it still conveys this creepy, and unshakable feel. It may not leave as big an impact as the stage play itself, but I found it a more than worthy adaptation, and a highlight picture from 1996.  

 

#9 “Space Jam” 

It’s out of my sheer boyhood nostalgia that “Space Jam” makes my list. While there were a number of family pictures that I grew-up with at this early stage in life … I fondly look back on this as one of my childhood favorites, as well an unmistakable time-capsule of the decade. 

When the Looney Toons are threatened by invading aliens, a wager is made, and their freedom depends on the outcome of a high stakes Basketball Game. The aliens cheat their way into becoming unstoppable muscle-bound sports players, leaving the unexperienced Looney Toons at a disadvantage. Thus, Michael Jordon is recruited to lead the team to victory, resulting in a colorful, slapstick laden Basketball game. 

This marks the first of two movies on my list that you can brand as “guilty pleasures” … as I know they're not high art, but my feelings are strong enough to count them. More than anything, “Space Jam” has always stuck with me for being an experience my best neighborhood friends of the time and I bonded over, so I’ve got some core memories tied in with this one. 

The animation still looks impressive, and the soundtrack … oh my goodness … few others take me back like this one dose. When it comes to worthy family pictures of the year, there were objectively better choices like “James and the Giant Peach” … but for me, there’s just some childhood delights that retain their appeal into adulthood … and “Space Jam” has always been one of them.  

 

#8 “Romeo + Juliet” 

It’s the famous tale of a young teenage romance ruined by family strife, but there’s one major difference in this 1996 production … it has the distinction of being set in modern times. Actually, there’s a second difference, and that’s Baz Luhrmann’s distinct vision and style. Even when at their weakest, I’ve always loved watching Baz Luhrmann’s movies, as he’s a filmmaker who always brings a distinct look and energy to his productions.  

Granted, the films’ loud and overblown tone can be divisive among viewers, but it’s also incredibly unique and ambitious in its presentation. All the iconic moments we recognize from “Romeo & Juliet” are all ingrained in my mind through this film’s variation … the love at first sight moment in which the two first see each-other through a crowded fish tank … the balcony scene being set in a swimming pool … and Romeo’s vengeful outburst leading into an exciting car chase.  

Lastly, the tragic ending, but this time featuring our two lovers locking eyes with one another just before they die. This is the version that seems to attract young teen viewers, and what a cool way to be introduced to one of the greatest works of literature. It wasn’t the most disciplined romance picture to come out from the year … but it’s still remained a personal favorite of mine all the same.

 

 #7 “From Dusk Till Dawn” 

Time for my biggest 1996 guilty pleasure of them all, a movie that combines a sharp crime picture with a B-Grade Horror movie … and it’s all the more special for it. With the combined talents of Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez, you can’t go wrong. The movie opens on a somewhat serious tone as we follow two criminals who have taken a family hostage and are aiming to sneak out of the country. 

Once they venture into Mexico, the group stops at a bar … which just happens to be full of vampires, and that’s when things get really crazy, and off the wall entertaining. It’s a ridiculous film, plain a simple … but it’s the novelty of seeing characters molded for a crime thriller suddenly dropped into a completely different genre picture that makes it so much fun to return to. While the movie changes style, the characters remain the same, and it’s great to see how they adjust to a completely different tone and setting. 

It gives the film a personality separate from other Horror movies of the decade, and it can appeal to more than one genre fan as a result. As a general monster movie fan myself, it gives me everything I enjoy … creative vampire action, monster transformations, and no shortage of cool ways to see vampires get destroyed. Once again, it’s the uniqueness of these characters interacting with these creatures that gives the film its appeal and the cast is solid. 

Salma Hayek is a knock-out as the table dancing vampire queen, and George Clooney shines in his film debut … personally, I still find this the most entertaining performances of his carrier. Again, this is not a high-art movie by any means, it’s all style and goofy fun, but noteworthy for breaking conventional rules, and has a blast all the way.    

 

#6 “Fargo” 

There were some decent nominations for Best Picture to come out of 1996 … but only one of them makes it on my list of personal favorites, and it’s the Coen Brothers Crime Thriller classic “Fargo”. Sleazy, second-hand car dealer Jerry Lundegaard hires two criminals to kidnap his own wife in an effort to inherit a large ransom from his very rich farther in law. 

This gets the attention of local Police Chief Marge Gunderson, who despite being very pregnant, is determined to follow their trail and bring the crooks to justice. Frances McDormand’s Oscar Winning performance as Chief Gunderson, and her optimistic view on life made for one of the decades absolute best characters, and the rest of the cast including William H. Macy as the sleazy car dealer is quite memorable. The film walks an incredibly delicate tightrope act as it juggles comedy with cruelty, but it knows just when to be quirky, when to be serious, and when to let humanity take center stage. 

It’s a crime picture, but with its own distinct persona and presentation that makes it feel fresh and different from so many of its peers. While there are still five more movies from 1996 that I personally liked a little more … “Fargo” absolutely was my pick for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.  

 

#5 “Evita” 

In this fact-based musical, we see the life of one Eva Peron, who for seven years was the first lady of Argentina, and leading up to her untimely death in 1952, we see how she became one of the most adored and accomplished spokeswomen to ever live. It makes for an occasionally potent look at one of the darkest chapters in the history of Argentina, and highlights the economic collapse of the time, along with Eva’s political career. While the movie admittedly struggles as a narrative peace, it nevertheless thrives as a rock-solid musical, with high energy song numbers, and it’s through this soundtrack that the film achieves both the epic and emotional grandeur which it aspires to achieve. 

This musical was one of the very first I ever identified by name and became a fan of. There was admittedly some controversy revolving around the casting of Madonna as one of Argentina’s most decorative political figures … but the honest truth is … she actually played the part with great respect, as she delivers a rich performance, and even though I’ve never called myself a fan of her music … she can certainly carry a tune. 

The wickedly talented Antonio Banderas is also utilized brilliantly as an omnipotent storyteller, who seems to represent the voice of the Argentina people. It’s all around a theatrical musical with size, ambition, style, and one heck of an energizing soundtrack. It’s only “so-so” as a historical picture … but it’s a smashing decade musical, and one that’s stuck with me a personal favorite through the years.

 

#4 “Independence Day” 

Well … this countdown just wouldn’t feel complete without arguably the biggest summer movie event of the year. Good old “Independence Day”, it’s a straightforward alien-invasion movie, as well as a 90’s staple for summer popcorn entertainment. Despite not containing a single original idea, there’s just a real sense of charisma, energy and excitement that comes with the whole package, and makes it work. 

There’s also a genuine sense of high stakes, and some reasonably good tension that fits along with the films overall fun factor. The cast likewise is still very memorable, with Will Smith making a face for himself in the summer movie line-up. While this movie and “Twister” both launched the overabundance of disaster movies in the late 90’s, “Independence Day” also helped in the steady reemergence of big Sci-Fi pictures, which had been in limbo for years. 

It’s not a perfect movie by any means, but for all its shortcomings, I do think it holds up as one of the best, modern alien invasion movies, and I don’t think I’ve seen one since that’s left quite as memorable an impact. The effects still look great, the action fun and while the film isn’t the most meaningful experience to watch on the 4^th of July, it certainly delivers the fireworks … and sometimes, that’s good enough.   

 

#3 “Hamlet” 

Set in the 19th Century, Prince Hamlet of Denmark is shaken over the revelation that his father was slain by his uncle Claudius, along with the aid of his mother, in an effort to take ownership of the Kingdom. Out for revenge, and eager to reveal the truth of his corrupt family, Hamlet accidently kills the father of his love interest Ophelia … setting a series of events in play, that will eventually culminate in the Princess tragic death. 

1996 was a good year for movie adaptions of William Shakespeare’s classics, as I’ve already mentioned “Romeo + Juliet”, and now we’ve reached “Hamlet”. Among the many different film versions of Shakespeare's source material I've seen … none have stuck with me more than Kenneth Branagh’s 1996 epic film version of "Hamlet". 

Despite being set in 19th Centuries Victorian Era, as opposed to the 15th and 16th Century Renascence Era of the stage play, this film version of “Hamlet” never the less was the first unabridged, theatrical movie to follow the events of the source material closer than any other movie adaption … clocking in at 246 minutes as a result … as well as an unmistakable masterpiece all around. Under Kenneth Branagh’s brilliant direction, as well as star stealing performance in the lead role, this film hits all the dramatic marks of its source material with finely textured detail. 

It's a visual marvel to behold, and an A-list cast brings all the iconic stage characters to life masterfully. Derek Jacobi in particular brings a complex and even sympathetic dimension to the villain Claudius. It’s all around my favorite Epic theatrical retelling of one of Shakespeare’s greatest Epic tales … and I feel was more deserving of Best Picture then any film nominated that year.

 

#2 Disney’s “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” 

I don’t remember the very first movie I saw in the theater … but I do remember seeing this film at a very young age and the opening shot of Notre Dame cathedral being one of my most special moments when I realized … I love watching movies on a huge screen. Beyond the sentimental value, the films strong visuals, sensational music, dark themes, epic size and beautiful message of tolerance have sustained “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” as one of my personal favorites of Disney’s traditional hand drawn collection. 

The story is engaging and everything is brought up on a grand scale, with a tremendous quire boasting its size and scope. The musical numbers are also some of my favorites, as they work on their own while also driving the narrative forward like any real on-stage musical. I also like how dark this film gets, as it took more chances, but I never felt it went too far either.  

The characters are also among my favorites, with our deformed hero being a kind and humble individual to cheer for, and Ezmerelda in my view is an unsung Disney Heroine. Also, the villain Frollo is about as menacing yet complex as Disney villains get. There’re even parts when this film touches on issues of faith and religion, which gives this film a layer of substance not seen in previous Disney offerings. 

While the film admittedly doesn’t work as a perfect literary adaption and occasionally struggles with some shifts in tone … it all balances out with some of the studios finest quality material. Disney’s “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” may not be considered an animated classic, but it’s remained one of my most cherished childhood experiences and still ranks high as one of my personal favorite traditionally animated movies I've ever seen.

 

Before I reveal my Number One favorite movie of 1996, here are some quick Honorable Mentions …

“The Rock”

“Twister”

“Mars Attacks!”

“The Frighteners”

“The Nutty Professor”

 

#1 “Star Trek: First Contact” 

When it comes to my favorite long running franchises … “Star Trek” remains one of my absolute favorites, and it was seeing “Star Trek: First Contact” in the theater back in 1996 that kicked off one of my biggest fandoms. The story combines a dark, yet thrilling encounter with the lethal Borg invaders, along with a compelling time-travel adventure that showcases the origin of the Federation … and it all comes together in one masterful package. 

“Star Trek: The Next Generation” in general is my favorite branch of the series, and this movie without question was the best film to utilize the Next Generation crew. Patrick Stewart gives his most iconic portrayal of Captain Picard, and the rest of the cast all have their moments to shine. 

The film also highlights the TV shows most famous villains … the Borg … in cinematic glory, along with their Oscar nominated makeup designs. This marked one of my earliest PG-13 movie experiences (the first one I had in the theater) and still holds up as a great film outside of its established franchise. This is the “Star Trek” movie that always seemed to have something for everyone, whether their long-time fans or not. 

There’s plenty of action, some stellar visual effects, a beautiful musical score composed by Jerry Goldsmith and memorable guest performances, especially from James Cromwell as a loony, yet ambitious scientist. The tone is dark and suspenseful, but matched with the character arcs and humanity the series was best known for, with a subtle splash of hummer thrown in. It’s just an excellent film on all grounds, has remained my personal favorite instalment of the whole “Star Trek” collection, and it’s personally my absolute favorite movie event of 1996 ... Engage!

Thanks for reading my countdown … and continue to enjoy the movies you Love!

 

Every Oz Movie I’ve seen Ranked

 

 The original novel “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” by Author L. Frank Baum was first published in 1900, had thirteen direct sequels, and many more books and spin-off works that followed in the decades to come. In 1939, a little movie musical called “The Wizard of Oz” debuted and has achieved status as one of the great Hollywood movie landmarks. Between the success of the film, and the large collection of source material to pull from, it makes the world of Oz easy pickings for movies and spin-off material. 

What I love most about the Oz film adaptations is that each movie stands on its own, with its own continuity. As a longtime fan of both the classic movie and books, I wanted to stop and rank every Oz related movie I’ve seen and express my feelings on them. First, I’ll rank the theatrical movies I’ve seen from my most favorite Oz movie to my least favorite, and then as a bonus, I’ll lightly mention some TV specials I’ve seen. Again, there are far more Oz movies and specials than the ones I’ve listed, these are just the ones I’ve seen.    

 

#1 “The Wizard of Oz” (1939) 

No sense beating around the bush, because while the 1939 picture wasn’t the first Oz adaption to hit the silver screen … it’s the reason I’m connected to the source material. This wasn’t a one-to-one copy of the book either, as it had a number of alterations, but in my view, the changes were made in service for a great movie. Farm girl Dorothy is tired of her mundane line on the farm at Kansas, and is suddenly whisked away to the magical world of Oz. Along the journey, she makes friends with a good Witch of the North, a Scarecrow in need of a Brain, a Tin-Man in need of a Heart, and a Lion in need of courage. 

Together, they set off on a journey to find what they’re missing, all while combating the Wicked Witch of the West. Speaking of whom, The Wicked Witch is just as awesome as ever, with her unforgettable image and menacing personality, she’s remained one of the all-time great family-feature villains. Of course, I love the characters in this movie. 

Judy Garlands leading portrayal of Dorothy remains both a lovable and enduring screen presence, and the remaining characters are all just as appealing as they represent distinct virtues, like knowledge, courage and compaction. Both the narrative and message are simple, but it sticks with me, and everything else just puts me in a very comforting mood. 

When it comes to my favorite movies of all time, I’ve never been able to single out a personal favorite above all else … as I feel it ruins the magic to put them on some kind of pedestal. With that said … I do feel that no other movie is more important to me than the 1939 musical “The Wizard of Oz”. As far back as I can remember, it was watching this movie as a little kid that made me love movies in general. In fact, even though I was very little, I can still remember the scene when Dorothy walks out her front door, into the land of Oz, we get that beautiful tracking shot of the set-design … and I’m confident, it was right there, stirring in the sub conscience of my mind … my love for the escapist nature of film took shape. 

Beyond the memorable characters, the film is just a spectacle to look at. The painted backgrounds have so much charm and the set designs are absolutely beautiful. Combine that with a very rich story, and it remains a timeless gem that’s just as great for every new generation.

 

#2 “Wicked” (2024) 

What started as a spin-off novel took on a life all its own as a hit Broadway play. It’s safe to say that “Wicked” has become the second most successful Oz adaption since the classic 1939 movie, and the 2024 movie "Wicked" by extent is the only other Oz film to be nominated for Best Picture. I’ve been a long-time fan of the show, along with its rousing soundtrack, and for decades I was waiting for it to come to life in a big motion picture event. The wait was worth it, the 2024 picture delivered on my expectations, and was just a pleasant escape at the cinema.  

This time around, we follow the young Glinda and Elphaba when they were best friends in school, and before they took on their titles of Witches North and West. With its immersive production designs and banger song numbers, this fantasy musical was already set to fly … but the lively performances and touching connections are what make it sour! For my money … this movie musical adaption gave me everything I wanted … then it gave me more and reminded me why the land of Oz is one of the greatest fantasy worlds to escape to on the silver screen.  

The music looked and sounded extraordinary, the performances made every character come to life, and the production design on display … holly cow … one of the best-looking productions I’ve seen in a while. Needless to say, this is one of the best offerings from the Marvelous World of Oz in decades and is an easy second favorite Oz movie behind the first classic colored picture.     

 

#3 “Return to Oz” (1985) 

While I’ll always view the 1939 classic “The Wizard of Oz” as a cinematic gem that no family should be without … there’s one other Oz film that I find severely underrated. The 1985 picture “Return to Oz” combines the two immediate book sequels into one picture and acts more like a sequel to the novel then the first movie … although Dorothy’s slippers are still Ruby Red as opposed to Silver. As the title suggests, Dorothy returns to Oz, but now she’s on a mission to restore the magical world after it’s been laid to ruin by two new villains called The Nome King and Princess Mombi. 

Whereas the original was a family musical, this one is a family horror film, so it's going to be an acquired taste for certain viewers. It’s chalk full of scary imagery, and contains some intense moments, but I feel it balanced out with a cast of wonderful new characters and a heartfelt lead. The Nome King is also one of my favorite Fantasy movie villains, who along with a striking image is wonderfully portrayed by Nicol Williamson. On a side note, The Nome King was the main reoccurring villain in the books, and while his depiction is very different in the film, it's still cool to have him present in an Oz movie.  

While no one can match Judy Garlands iconography, child actress Fairuza Balk is exceptionally lovable in her own right, as she gives this scary movie a heart and is how I picture Dorothy when I read the books. Some of the new characters like Jack Pumpkin Head, Tick-Tock the Robot and Dorothy's talking Chicken I feel are just as lovable as the original characters. It's also one of the rare films to feature Queen Ozma, who was one of the main characters of the books, and the person the land was initially named after before the Wizard arrived. There’s also a lot of creativity in this film, brilliant set designs and some fascinating stop motion animation. With so many puppets, impressive effects and giant sets, the film wins me over on a technical level just like the first, but with a different personality. 

It may feel down beat when compared to the classic, but if you view it simply as a standalone, fantasy adventure from the 1980’s, then you may find it to be a fun, dark, and thrilling ride. Also, weather you get into the darker tone of “Return to Oz” or not, it’s still the most book-accurate live-action Oz movie yet. It’s certainly not as good as the 1939 classic, but it’s a great fantasy adventure all on its own, and one of my favorites to come from the 1980's.

 

#4 “Wicked: For Good” (2025) 

The second act of the hit Broadway musical “Wicked” is frequently cited as the weaker half … but that’s when a movie has the chance to change things … for good! Like with the stage show, this second half has too many tie-ins with the original Oz story, and it felt just as gimmicky here. The tone is also less consistent than its predecessor and leaves some characters with unresolved narrative threads. 

While this second movie adaptation didn’t soar as high as its predecessor, and struggles with a jarring tone, it still packs the spark, the exhilarating music, the colorful iconography and heartfelt performances that the world of Oz deserves. Also, I loved the addition of new songs, which felt right at home with this musical. It wasn't until this film I realized we've never gotten a song version of the phrase "No Place Like Home". Even if it wasn’t perfect, I felt it delivered an ending that was honestly more satisfying than the original stage play. All around, a worthy conclusion to one of the best stage musicals to movie adaptations I’ve seen in a while.

 

#5 “Oz the Great and Powerful” (2013) 

Under the direction of Sami Rami, we get a prequel picture showing us how the titular young Magician called Oz arrived in the land he shares the same name with, and how he became enemies of the Wicked Witch sisters. James Franco portrayed the titular Oz with varying results, as half his performance was charming, while the other half was a little too animated for the characters own good. 

Also, while other Oz movies can be categorized as musicals, or horror, or comedy, this film is a straightforward walkabout in a fantasy setting, which is welcomed, but average in its presentation. Needless to say, the film has garnered mixed to dismissive feelings from viewers, and personally, I think it’s okay. 

At least half the cast is good, Rachel Weise as the Wicked Witch of the East is a worthy villain, and Joey King as the little China Girl is one of my absolute favorite Oz characters. Everything else is hit and miss, with occasional moments that really work, and other sequences and ideas that fall flat. For me, this brick road certainly stumbles with some tonal issues, and a horribly miscast Mila Kunis as the Wicked Witch of the West. 

Regardless, the land of Oz is still a reliably colorful fantasy setting to escape to. Sam Rami’s direction and a unique collection of characters also help give this outing an engaging personality all its own. There’s nothing remarkable about the film, but I don’t mind having it as a little ad-on to the cinematic offerings of Oz.

 

#6 “The Wiz” (1978) 

Before “Wicked” took center stage on Broadway, “The Wiz” was the first big breakout musical success to spin-off from “The Wonderful World of Oz”. While I like the stage show, and enjoy the soundtrack, the 1978 movie adaptation never quiet won me over. There’s a very talented cast present, with Diana Ross, Richard Pryor and Michael Jackson clearly giving their all … but the movie surrounding these talents lacks the same spark and energy of the stage show. 

Visually, I can see the money put into the production, yet it’s not very appealing, with muted colors, stiff cinematography and cluttered sets. It’s not a completely terrible musical by any means, as it has it’s shining moments … but for me, it’s never been on par with its initial stage show or it’s cinematic counterparts. Regardless of my feelings, this film has garnered a strong cult following … so it did something right for a number of viewers.

#7 “Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return” (2013) 

Adapted from the 1989 book “Dorothy of Oz”, we once again see Dorothy whisked off on another adventure to save the land of Oz, this time from an evil Jester, who follows in the blood line of the Wicked Witch of the West. While there had been a number of animated Oz movies prior, this was the first theatrical release to utilize a CGI animation design … although, not on par with many of its peers. It also featured a noteworthy voice cast of talented actors, including Patrick Stewart, Martin Short, Bernadette Peters, Kelsey Grammer and Dan Aykroyd. 

As far as animated movies for kids are concerned, “Dorothy’s Return” is … unremarkable … but harmless. It’s perfectly serviceable fluff for very little kids, with passable animation and some charm on display, but there’s obviously better animated movies to pick over this too. I’d say it’s only for determined viewers, or very little kids.       

 

#8 "The Wizard of Oz" (1982) 

As stated above, the 1939 movie is a motion picture classic, although it doesn't follow the original book perfectly. That's where the 1982 anime comes in, as it's another re-telling of the story, but sticks closer to the original text. It still has some alterations, and missing moments, but fans of the book should give this one a chance, if only to see a more faithful recreation of the source material. 

The animation on display isn't the sharpest, but the presentation is stronger and more wholesome than most other animated Oz pictures. For me, it was a safe one and done experience, but of the animated Oz offerings I've seen, this is one was passable ... so take that for what it's worth.    

 

#9 “Journey Back to Oz” (1974) 

Here it is, one of the very first efforts at a theatrically released animated Oz picture. Once again, it’s another sequel story, with Dorothy returning to the land of Oz, this time on a mission to stop the new Bad Witch Mombi from taking over. 

In the plus column, this film has a fine voice cast, including Mickey Rooney as the Scarecrow, Ethel Merman as the Bad Witch Mombi, and even Margaret Hamilton (the original Wicked Witch of the West) provided the voice of Aunt Em. Most notable of all is Liza Minnelli, the daughter of Judy Garland, voiced Dorothy in this picture and she not only captured the spirit of her mother’s performance, but her singing voice isn’t half bad either. 

Everything else from the awkwardly animated characters, too the instantly forgettable songs, and the slow, disjointed pacing, makes this Oz outing barely more than a novelty item. Some of the backgrounds look nice, and it’s cool to see sequel characters like Pumpkinhead and Mombi, but the original trio of friend’s barley have anything to do, and the narrative of Dorothy saving Oz has been done better in other films. Not terrible, but I’d only recommend this film to hardcore Oz fans.  

 

#10 “The Wizard of Oz” (1925) 

Predating the 1939 movie classic were a number of Silent Films which adapted the world of Oz to the silver screen. Some shorts were even attempted from the books original author L. Frank Baum. However, the one with the distinction of being the first full-length film version of Oz is this silent picture from 1925, and boy … is this ever a curious Oz adaption. Despite featuring an opening with a little girl asking her grandfather to read the actual book of “The Wizard of Oz”, we’re given a very different story from the original text, and the presentation is more of an art-house comedy. 

In this version, farm girl Dorothy discovers she’s the long-lost Princess of the Land of Oz and is used as a patsy by the evil Prime Minister Kruel in a scheme to take over the kingdom. Dorothy’s fellow farmhands also venture to Oz, and disguise themselves as a scarecrow, Tin-man and Lion. Through many slapstick chases and sword fights, Dorothy gets her happily ever after by marrying Price Kynd. I have no confirmation on this, but I’d like to think the farmhands discussing themselves helped inspire the dual performances in the 1939 movie. 

The film was directed by Larry Semon, who also stars as the Scarecrow, and it’s clear he used the setting of Oz as a backdrop for a slapstick fantasy more than anything else. Everything runs on cartoon logic, the plot is paper thin, and it’s really just a series of goofy mayhem. While the film can be credited as an achievement for its time, even a steppingstone for what was to come later, it really hasn’t aged well. If you’re fond of old silent films, you may find some appeal here, but otherwise … just stick with any other version.        

 

BONUS Wizard of OZ Specials I’ve seen:

 

“Tom and Jerry & The Wizard of Oz” (2011) 

At first glance, it feels like the most random parring for an animated crossover … except its actually part of a series in which the titular cartoon stars Tom and Jerry are placed in classic literary and movie adaptions. For this feature, our leading cat and mouse find themselves in a cartoon recreation of the 1939 classic “The Wizard of Oz”, and we see them comedically journey through the familiar narrative, with added chasses and slapstick all along the way. 

Needless to say, I wouldn’t recommend this to any purest “Wizard of Oz” fan … but I would recommend it to fans of Tom and Jerry, as the film properly utilizes their comedic strengths for an appealing little watch. It’s not one of their absolute funniest offerings, but I’d say it’s one of their better contemporary films.   

"Tom and Jerry: Back to Oz" (2016) 

Because one cartoon crossover wasn't enough, we got a sequel, but this time around, it's the Oz characters who get more attention, while Tom and Jerry are more like set decorations. As such, it's not as funny a Tom and Jerry cartoon as the first crossover, but it makes for a half-way passable animated Oz sequel. In fact, on the low bar I've set these animated Oz sequel stories, I'd say this is the best one ... which means slightly better than the previously mentioned “Journey Back to Oz” from 1974, or “Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return” from 2013, but still not as great as the live action "Return to Oz" from 1985. 

On that note, this special marks the return of The Nome King, who closer resembles the character from the books, and is suitably voiced by the always charismatic Jason Alexander. This special also features some lesser-known Oz characters from the books, including the Jitterbug and the Mouse Queen. 

It also has the novelty of seeing the established Oz characters visit Kansas for a moment, which is certainly different from other versions. While this isn't any kind of masterpiece, and has its share of annoying detours, I'd still recommend as a single viewing experience for any long time Oz fan, just to see if it's something you'd enjoy.    

 

“The Muppets Wizard of Oz” (2005) 

When it comes to the famous Muppet characters, I’ve personally never called myself a die-hard fan, nor have I really seen any of the shows, but I have seen most of the movies, and I do still have my reserved fondness for them. For me, I prefer viewing the Muppets as a group of thespians, who’d play various well-known characters, but brought to life through their own distinct personalities. Whether it be “Treasure Island”, or “A Christmas Carol”, I always seem to enjoy the Muppets most when they’re in the roles of classic characters from other established stories or franchises. 

“The Wizard of Oz” seemed tailor-made for them to tackle in a colorful, and humorous outing. Heck, they could’ve easily shared a perfect crossover song … an “Over the Rainbow Connection” if you will. Somehow … the rainbow failed to connect these two properties in a special way. There is amusement in seeing how the individual Muppets are all casted as the classic characters, especially Miss Piggy, who plays all four of the residential Witches of Oz. Also, unlike the previously mentioned Tom and Jerry crossover, this Muppet special sticks to “The Wonderful World of Oz” book, as opposed to the classic 1939 movie, which I found a very admirable direction. 

That’s about where the positivity stops. Ashanti is a good looking, but irritating Dorothy, whose only motivation is being a singer … needless to say, her character is very one-note. Most of the jokes aren’t very funny, the visual presentation ranges from cheap to ugly looking, and its choppy pacing make its 101-minute run time feel even longer. Needless to say, it’s one trip to Oz that can easily be skipped.  

 That concludes my list, and it makes me wonder what might be next for the wonderful world of Oz. Personally, I feel there's still a large treasure trove of source material to pull from, with thirteen original books that have barley been touched, and various other book spinoffs that can be molded into something special. Either way, while we'll always have the classic movie and books, I'm open for more Oz material, whether they be theatrical, musical, animated, or even special novelty items. When it comes to enchanted worlds to escape too ... there's simply no place like the Land of Oz.             

Thanks for reading, share your feelings on your favorite Oz outings … and continue to enjoy the movies and specials you Love!