Eighty-five years have passed, and the magic remains intact. Imperishable and, fortunately, enhanced by "Wicked."
Taking advantage of the release of "Wicked: For Good," I thought it would be a good idea to revisit this classic, which, after 85 years, continues to resonate with generations.
It's been over 20 years since I last saw it, but I can't help but be amazed at how well it's been made.
Let's be realistic, we all know what happened to Judy Garland and the tragedy that was her life, closely related to landing this leading role and everything it entailed. We also can't ignore the accidents on set, the poisonings, burns, and near-deaths that occurred in the context of a studio with unscrupulous producers and a film that had four directors.
Beyond all that, we have to value "The Wizard of Oz" as an incredible work that has transcended time.
No one would believe that it was one of the first films in Technicolor and that it's from 1939! Of course, it has flaws, sometimes pacing problems, editing issues, and also some somewhat exaggerated acting. Nevertheless, it's a colossal work, from the sets and costumes to the music and many of the performances. It marked a before and after in the history of cinema and is one of the great examples of a blockbuster.
One must view these films with the perspective of the era; I don't have the same yardstick to judge it as I do with "Oppenheimer" or "Barbie," to name a few examples, which is why I highlight it so much.
Judy Garland is incredible; her performance exudes such purity, concern, joy, and humor. She truly was a superstar. The humor, by the way, works very well in this film; it has aged magnificently, and it was truly a delight to enjoy it.
I appreciate that the two "Wicked" films connect so well and with such respect, enhancing each other and making this work something timeless and magnificent.
It's been over 20 years since I last saw it, but I can't help but be amazed at how well it's been made.
Let's be realistic, we all know what happened to Judy Garland and the tragedy that was her life, closely related to landing this leading role and everything it entailed. We also can't ignore the accidents on set, the poisonings, burns, and near-deaths that occurred in the context of a studio with unscrupulous producers and a film that had four directors.
Beyond all that, we have to value "The Wizard of Oz" as an incredible work that has transcended time.
No one would believe that it was one of the first films in Technicolor and that it's from 1939! Of course, it has flaws, sometimes pacing problems, editing issues, and also some somewhat exaggerated acting. Nevertheless, it's a colossal work, from the sets and costumes to the music and many of the performances. It marked a before and after in the history of cinema and is one of the great examples of a blockbuster.
One must view these films with the perspective of the era; I don't have the same yardstick to judge it as I do with "Oppenheimer" or "Barbie," to name a few examples, which is why I highlight it so much.
Judy Garland is incredible; her performance exudes such purity, concern, joy, and humor. She truly was a superstar. The humor, by the way, works very well in this film; it has aged magnificently, and it was truly a delight to enjoy it.
I appreciate that the two "Wicked" films connect so well and with such respect, enhancing each other and making this work something timeless and magnificent.
- LeonardoOliva69
- 23 nov. 2025