The Wizard of the Emerald City, Part 1 (2025) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The Wizard of the Emerald City, Part 1 (2025) is a modern Russian adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s classic The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Directed by Igor Voloshin, this film takes a bold approach, reimagining the beloved tale with a contemporary twist. While it aims to capture the magic of Oz for a new generation, it has sparked polarized reactions from audiences and critics alike.
In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the movie’s strengths and weaknesses, discuss audience reception, and provide insights on where to watch it online when it becomes available.
Plot Overview
The film follows Ellie, a young girl swept away by a magical hurricane to the mystical land of the Munchkins. To return home, she embarks on a journey down the Yellow Brick Road, accompanied by the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, and the Cowardly Lion. Together, they seek the Wizard of the Emerald City, hoping he can grant their deepest wishes.
Although this storyline remains faithful to the original book’s structure, The Wizard of the Emerald City, Part 1 introduces modern elements, including Ellie’s reliance on technology, a more CGI-heavy world, and some altered character dynamics.
A Cinematic Experiment: Visuals and Effects
One of the most talked-about aspects of this adaptation is its visual presentation. The CGI world of Oz attempts to be grand and immersive, yet it has received mixed reviews. Some viewers admire the intricate designs of the characters and landscapes, while others criticize the effects for feeling artificial and lifeless.
Certain moments showcase impressive digital artistry, but others fall into the uncanny valley, making it difficult for audiences to fully immerse themselves in the fantasy. The production values are inconsistent, which can be distracting, especially for fans of the rich visual storytelling seen in previous adaptations.
Performance and Characterization
Acting performances in The Wizard of the Emerald City, Part 1 have been met with skepticism. Many viewers describe the cast as stiff and unconvincing, with characters lacking emotional depth. Ellie, in particular, has been a point of contention—some appreciate her modernized portrayal, while others find her irritating and self-centered.
The supporting characters, including the Scarecrow, Tin Woodman, and Cowardly Lion, are visually distinct but don’t offer much in terms of personality. The film struggles to balance nostalgia with fresh storytelling, leaving longtime fans feeling disconnected from the characters they once loved.
A Divisive Reception: Audience Reactions
Reviews of The Wizard of the Emerald City, Part 1 have ranged from amusement to outright disdain. Some viewers enjoy its campy nature, while others consider it a complete misfire. Common criticisms include:
- Weak storytelling – Many feel the film lacks the heart and depth of the original, reducing the adventure to a series of superficial events.
- Poor dubbing and localization – The English dub has been called awkward, with inconsistent name translations and mismatched subtitles.
- Heavy reliance on CGI – While visually ambitious, the film’s effects often fall short of delivering true cinematic magic.
- Rushed pacing with a cliffhanger ending – Despite being longer than the 1939 classic, the film still feels hurried and abruptly cuts off, setting up a second installment that won’t arrive until 2027.
That said, some viewers appreciate its attempt at a fresh take on Oz. A handful of fans admire its bold visual choices and believe it introduces the story to younger audiences in an engaging way.
Where to Watch The Wizard of the Emerald City, Part 1 (2025) Online
As of now, The Wizard of the Emerald City, Part 1 is not available for streaming. However, based on trends for international film releases, it is expected to arrive on various platforms in the near future.
Here’s where you might soon be able to watch it:
Subscription-Based Streaming Services (TBD)
- Netflix – Given its history of acquiring foreign films, Netflix could be a likely home for this adaptation.
- Amazon Prime Video – Often picks up international releases, making it a strong contender.
- Hulu – May acquire streaming rights depending on regional licensing agreements.
Rental & Purchase Options (TBD)
If the film follows the usual digital release pattern, it may become available for rent or purchase on platforms such as:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple TV (iTunes)
- Google Play Movies
- Vudu
To stay updated on availability, check JustWatch for the latest streaming information.
Final Verdict: Should You Watch It?
The Wizard of the Emerald City, Part 1 is an ambitious but flawed retelling of a beloved classic. While its visual design and creative risks may appeal to some, its weak storytelling, uneven performances, and questionable CGI make it a tough sell for die-hard Wizard of Oz fans.
Pros
✅ Unique reinterpretation of The Wizard of Oz
✅ Some impressive character and set designs
✅ Potentially fun for younger audiences
Cons
❌ Weak script and superficial character development
❌ Distracting CGI and inconsistent visuals
❌ Dubbed version suffers from poor translation and awkward voice acting
❌ Cliffhanger ending with no resolution until 2027
If you’re curious to see how a Russian adaptation of Oz unfolds—or if you enjoy campy fantasy films—it might be worth checking out when it becomes available. Otherwise, revisiting the 1939 classic or Wicked may be a better option.
Want to Learn More?
For more details, visit the official website of the film.
Would you watch The Wizard of the Emerald City, Part 1 when it becomes available? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
