I was lucky enough to attend an early screening last night, so I just figured I’d share some thoughts.
The pros:
1) Excellent use of 3D. Usually movies these days tack it on for the markup value, but the 3D actually enhanced the experience quite a bit. I’m one to be disappointed in a lot of 3D versions these days. It also didn’t give me a headache which tends to happen. I got one for Alice in Wonderland (though to be fair, that wasn’t natively shot in 3D and was converted during post-production).
2) The effects were spectacular. I could see them winning an Oscar for it, especially when it comes to the china doll. Freaky out of this world.
3) The second half of the film was very strong.
4) I was surprisingly scared at times even though this isn’t a horror movie. I know (or hope) some kids will be effectively spooked per the film’s intentions. It was cool to be drawn in enough to feel suspense.
The Cons:
1) I didn’t like Mila Kunis in this at all. Her yelling grated on my nerves. I liked her even less than James Franco. I think she was supposed to be a sympathetic villain, but I didn’t buy it. And I’m someone who tends to like good villains. This could have been a signature performance for her, but it felt more like a wasted opportunity. I think she was miscast. Rachel Weisz and Michelle Williams had better performances.
2) James Franco. I’ve seen stronger performances from him and I actually like him. I think he’s hott, but he didn’t have that leading man appeal for me here.
3) I wasn’t sure what to make of the first half of the film. It took me a while to become invested.
4) The soundtrack. I wish it had the same musical quality as The Wizard of Oz. It was really lacking here. There were practically no singalong songs, or at least nothing memorable. The one with the munchkins was way too short.
All in all I definitely recommend it, and I recommend seeing it in theatres in 3D. It doesn’t have the classic and epic feel as The Wizard of Oz, but for now it’s probably the best movie I’ve seen of 2013 thus far. The film releases nationwide this Friday.
I was really looking forward to seeing this movie as the Wizard of Oz is my Favorite movie ever but now i’m in no rush to see it after reading your review. I figured they’d screwup my alltime fav. Hollywood right! but i also knew it wasn’t what i had in mind anyways so of course i’ll go see it any version is on my list to read or see. Thanks for filling everyone in. I know you saved me from some disappointment.
The Wizard of Oz is certainly greater than this, but I do recommend seeing it eventually and in 3D. It just wasn’t a perfect film for me like I was hoping. The original was so great you know? If it ain’t broke don’t fix it!
Took the words right outta my mouth…they keep remaking all these movies..who are they to mess with oz..really? Please don’t try and fix what ain’t broken!! That’s a classis.Ieave it what it is quit trying to make a profit off of something that should be remembered for what it was…pretty soon well have 3 spin offs to the oz. also I’m a bit unhappy u mentioned they cut the munchkins song..I love that…its my absolute favorite. I’ll catch myself singing it here and there when I’m really happy…I love it
But all the cons I will see this movie and buy the book and he DVD when its released because I just have too. I can’t help but collect these things. At least I no what I’m in for and my expectations won’t be so high now.
I am someone who believes you just can’t do better than the original, whether it be movies, coca-cola products,or whatever…but they will always keep trying to top the originals, no matter what. I still believe I would like to see this movie, if for no other reason than the special effects and brilliant colors, which seem mesmerizing…
It’s worth it for that alone, Vickie.