Just came back from The Wizard of Oz in 3D.
It was magnificent to see it on a huge screen again in a beautifully restored print. The 3D helped to bring out the amazing production design in the movie. The 3D brought out so much that it was a feast for the eyes.
The makeup design was also well done and if there was an Oscar that year for makeup, Jack Dwan would have won. The costumes were also a feast for the eyes. It seemed that practically every Munchkin and Emerald City citizen had a costume of their own design.
I also notice a couple of other things that I never noticed before. The floating Wizard had upper and lower fangs. The other thing occurred just after the three heroes fought the Witch's guards and put on their clothes: Toto had a tassel from one of the guard's costumes in his mouth.
The rated the film PG after almost 75 years of theater and television they rated it PG for "Scary Images".
Also watching the film on the big screen you can see where they clipped out a lot of the WItch's dialogue.
Of course there is the continuity gaffs. Like what happens to the flowers and the lollypop that Dorothy had before the Witch appeared?
The Wizard's guard' mustache is pointing up and then pointing down. (They clipped out a short piece of business that explained it)
The witch sending a little insect up ahead to take the fight out of them. This was the Jitterbug which was a big song and dance number that was cut out.
The Witch remover disappear from one shot to another. (Another piece of business also clipped out)
I noticed for the first time that just before the Witch flies off to the Emerald CIty she has a hat in her hand and throws it away. If you read the original book (like I have many times) this is the had she wears and says an incantation to summon the Winged Monkeys,
And whatever you say about the Wicked Witch of the West she is a Lady. Do you notice she rides her broom "side saddle" instead of a striding it.
It was great to see this movie again on such a giant screen (IMAX) great sound and 3D imaging that compliments the film.
I believe tomorrow is the last time it was playing, but it was in the top ten maybe they'll extend the engagement. But if not I suggest you go see this magnificent film. I don't think I'll ever be able to enjoy it that much on TV as so much of the visuals are lost.
