Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return (2013) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return (2013) is an animated musical adventure that serves as a sequel to the beloved classic The Wizard of Oz. Directed by Dan St. Pierre and Andrew L. Stone, this film features a star-studded voice cast, including Lea Michele as Dorothy, Dan Aykroyd as the Scarecrow, and Kelsey Grammer as the villainous Jester. With vibrant animation, catchy songs, and a new adventure in the Land of Oz, Legends of Oz aims to capture the hearts of a new generation while paying homage to its predecessor. In this review, we’ll explore the plot, critical reception, and where you can stream Legends of Oz online in the U.S.
Plot Summary of Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return
The story picks up shortly after Dorothy’s first adventure in Oz. Back in Kansas, Dorothy Gale (Lea Michele) is struggling to adjust to life after her magical journey. Meanwhile, the Land of Oz is in peril as the Jester (Kelsey Grammer) has taken control and captured her friends: the Scarecrow (Dan Aykroyd), the Tin Man (James Belushi), and the Cowardly Lion (Jim Piddock).
To save her friends and restore peace to Oz, Dorothy must return to the magical land with the help of new allies, including a brave and whimsical character named Wiser (Patrick Stewart) and a spirited China Princess (Megan Hilty). Together, they embark on a quest filled with challenges and adventures, encountering various characters along the way, including the familiar Glinda the Good Witch (Bernadette Peters).
As they confront the Jester and navigate through obstacles, the film emphasizes themes of friendship, courage, and the importance of believing in oneself. The journey is not just about saving her friends, but also about Dorothy discovering her own strength and resilience.
Critical Reception
Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return received mixed reviews upon its release. Critics praised the film’s colorful animation and engaging musical numbers but noted that it struggled to capture the magic of the original Wizard of Oz. The animation style, while visually appealing, received a variety of reactions, with some appreciating its modern take and others feeling it lacked the charm of traditional animation.
The voice performances were generally well-received, particularly Lea Michele’s portrayal of Dorothy, which infused the character with a fresh energy. Kelsey Grammer’s performance as the Jester was noted for its playful villainy, adding a comedic flair to the film. However, some critics felt the plot was predictable and the pacing uneven, which detracted from the overall experience.
Despite the criticisms, Legends of Oz found a warm reception among family audiences, especially children who appreciated the vibrant visuals and catchy songs. The film aimed to introduce younger viewers to the magic of Oz while delivering an entertaining story that would resonate with fans of the original.
Why Legends of Oz Is Worth Watching
Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return offers a delightful journey back to a familiar world filled with wonder and adventure. The film successfully combines humor, heart, and colorful animation, making it an engaging watch for families. The themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery are central to the story, offering valuable lessons for children.
The film’s soundtrack features several original songs that are catchy and fun, appealing to younger audiences. Songs like “One More Song” and “The Monster of the Jester” add to the film’s charm and help convey the emotional stakes of Dorothy’s journey. The character of Wiser, voiced by Patrick Stewart, provides wisdom and comic relief, enriching the story with his quirky personality.
Overall, Legends of Oz is an enjoyable film that, while not reaching the heights of its predecessor, stands on its own as a colorful and entertaining addition to the Oz franchise. It encourages viewers to believe in themselves and the power of friendship, making it a heartwarming family film.
Where to Watch Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return Online
If you’re looking to watch Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return (2013) online in the U.S., there are several streaming options available, as well as opportunities to rent or purchase the film. Here’s where you can find it:
1. Streaming on Subscription Platforms
- Amazon Prime Video: Legends of Oz is available to stream with an Amazon Prime subscription, allowing members to enjoy the film at no additional cost.
2. Rent or Purchase on Demand
For those who prefer to rent or buy Legends of Oz, the film is available on various on-demand platforms. Here are some options:
- Amazon Video: You can rent Legends of Oz for about $3.99 or purchase it for approximately $9.99. This makes it easy to watch on a variety of devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $9.99 on Google Play, offering flexibility for viewers.
- YouTube Movies: Available for rent or purchase at similar prices, Legends of Oz can also be streamed directly through YouTube.
- Vudu: Vudu offers Legends of Oz for rental ($3.99) or purchase ($9.99), with high-definition streaming options.
- Apple iTunes: The film can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $9.99 on iTunes, making it accessible for Apple device users.
Conclusion
Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return (2013) is a vibrant and entertaining animated adventure that seeks to bring the magic of Oz to a new generation. While it may not capture the iconic status of the original film, it offers a fun and engaging story filled with memorable characters, catchy songs, and important lessons about courage and friendship.
Whether you’re a fan of the original Wizard of Oz or looking for a family-friendly movie to enjoy, Legends of Oz is worth a watch. With streaming and rental options available on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Google Play, it’s easy to experience this delightful journey back to the Land of Oz.
So gather your family, grab some popcorn, and embark on an adventure with Dorothy and her friends in Legends of Oz!
