It's always a tradition of mine to tune into The Wizard of Oz at the start of the holiday season (not strictly every year, but most years, I do). I've long been a fan of this film, going all the way back to my early teen years.
It's a timeless classic. Passed on through generations of people growing up on the wondrous world of Oz and its influence in pop culture is undeniable. As time goes on, you can see references of Oz in everything.
Then there's the aesthetic; the color, the wonder, and the heart-melting emotions. All these years later, they translate. I've seen it countless times. I'm always awe-struck. It's also aided by the sentimental performances of Judy Garland, Ray Bolger, Jack Haley, and Bert Lahr.
Of course, the common complaint is that it's silly. And it is. It's wholesome to the nth degree and unabashedly saccharine. It's as milquetoast a story as you will find, even as a movie aimed at children/family audiences. But it was 1939. All that aside, it was a grand feat that this was made and it's turned out to be what it is in the pantheon of cinema.
For 1939, this was a complete technological and cinematic triumph. Now, in its 80th year anniversary, it still tugs at the most sensitive of heartstrings. Long live The Wizard of Oz.
My score: ★★★★★
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