Return to Oz (1985) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Return to Oz (1985), directed by Walter Murch, is a dark and imaginative fantasy film that serves as a sequel to L. Frank Baum’s beloved classic, The Wizard of Oz. Unlike its predecessor, Return to Oz presents a more eerie and adventurous take on the land of Oz. The film stars Fairuza Balk as Dorothy Gale and features a mix of puppetry and special effects that give it a distinct and unique atmosphere.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, key performances, and where you can stream Return to Oz online.
Plot Summary: A New Adventure in Oz
Return to Oz picks up where the original story left off, but with a darker and more surreal twist. Dorothy Gale (Fairuza Balk) is now living in Kansas, struggling with the memories of her previous adventure in Oz. When she is sent to a mental institution by her Aunt Em and Uncle Henry (Piper Laurie and Matt Clark), she is subjected to dubious treatments.
Dorothy’s adventure begins when she escapes from the institution and returns to Oz, only to find that the land is in disarray. The once-beautiful realm has been taken over by the evil Mombi (Jean Marsh), a wicked sorceress with a penchant for stealing heads, and the mechanical Nome King (Nicol Williamson), who is terrorizing the land.
Dorothy teams up with new friends, including a charming but cowardly pumpkin-headed creature named Jack Pumpkinhead (voiced by Brian Henson), a wooden robot named Tik-Tok (voiced by Scrooge McDuck), and a flying couch named Gump (voiced by Charles Durning). Together, they embark on a quest to restore Oz to its former glory and defeat the forces of evil.
Key Performances: Fairuza Balk, Jean Marsh, and Nicol Williamson
- Fairuza Balk as Dorothy Gale: Balk delivers a captivating performance as Dorothy, capturing the character’s bravery and resilience. Her portrayal brings a sense of innocence and determination to the role, making her an effective lead for the film’s adventurous narrative.
- Jean Marsh as Princess Mombi: Marsh plays the wicked sorceress with a blend of menace and elegance. Her performance adds a dark and sinister edge to the film, contributing to its eerie atmosphere.
- Nicol Williamson as The Nome King: Williamson’s portrayal of the Nome King combines a commanding presence with a touch of malevolence. His voice performance enhances the character’s role as a formidable antagonist.
Themes: Courage, Friendship, and Redemption
Return to Oz explores several important themes:
- Courage: Dorothy’s journey is a testament to bravery as she faces numerous challenges and dangers in her quest to save Oz. Her courage is central to the film’s narrative and serves as an inspiration to her companions.
- Friendship: The bonds formed between Dorothy and her new friends highlight the importance of teamwork and loyalty. Each character brings unique strengths to the group, and their relationships are crucial to overcoming the obstacles they face.
- Redemption: The film also touches on themes of redemption, particularly through the character of Dorothy, who seeks to restore peace to Oz and find her own sense of belonging.
Direction and Cinematic Style
Walter Murch’s direction of Return to Oz is characterized by its dark and imaginative approach. The film’s visual style is influenced by the use of practical effects, puppetry, and a sense of surrealism that sets it apart from the more whimsical tone of the original film.
The cinematography and production design create a hauntingly beautiful depiction of Oz, blending fantastical elements with a darker, more foreboding atmosphere. The film’s score, composed by David Shire, complements its eerie tone and enhances the sense of adventure.
Where to Watch Return to Oz (1985) Online in the USA
If you’re interested in streaming Return to Oz online, here are the platforms where you can rent, purchase, or stream the film in the U.S.:
1. Streaming Services (Subscription-Based)
- Disney+: Return to Oz is available for streaming on Disney+, as Disney owns the rights to the film. Disney+ subscriptions start at $7.99 per month.
2. Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent or purchase Return to Oz on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically start at $3.99, and purchasing the film in HD costs around $12.99.
- Apple TV (iTunes): The movie is available for rent on Apple TV for $3.99 or for purchase at $12.99.
- Google Play Movies: You can rent or buy Return to Oz on Google Play Movies, with rental prices starting at $3.99 and purchase prices at $12.99.
- Vudu: On Vudu, you can rent the film for $3.99 or purchase it for $12.99.
- YouTube Movies: The film is also available for rent or purchase on YouTube Movies with similar pricing options.
Why You Should Watch Return to Oz on Streaming Platforms
Streaming Return to Oz offers an opportunity to experience a unique and darker take on the classic Oz story. The film’s imaginative world-building, memorable characters, and eerie atmosphere make it a fascinating watch for fans of fantasy and adventure.
Platforms like Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV provide convenient options for renting or purchasing the film, allowing you to enjoy its distinctive portrayal of Oz from the comfort of your home.
Conclusion: A Dark and Imaginative Fantasy
Return to Oz (1985) is a dark and imaginative fantasy film that presents a unique and adventurous take on the land of Oz. Directed by Walter Murch and featuring strong performances from Fairuza Balk, Jean Marsh, and Nicol Williamson, the film offers a captivating and eerie exploration of the classic story.
With its inventive use of practical effects and its blend of adventure and darkness, Return to Oz stands out as a notable entry in the fantasy genre.
Watch Return to Oz Today:
- Disney+
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple TV (iTunes)
- Google Play Movies
- Vudu
- YouTube Movies
Embark on a fantastical journey with Return to Oz and discover a unique and enthralling vision of the beloved land of Oz.
