The Wizard of Oz (1939)

The critic calls it a masterpiece of storytelling that taps into primal emotions about home, abandonment and growing up. They single out Judy Garland's performance and the score for making it timelessly affecting for adults as well as children.

The critic calls the film spellbinding and a dazzling musical adaptation that captures childish delights and fears with grace and imagination. They single out the hummable tunes, spectacular set design, and Judy Garland's emotional performance as Over the Rainbow for particular praise.

The review hails it as a groundbreaking Technicolor musical fantasy that set new standards, with Judy Garland's charming performance and iconic imagery like the ruby slippers and Wicked Witch standing out. It emphasises its lasting influence and popularity.

The piece describes the 1939 classic as still wonderful despite some creaking now, with ageless appeal as a children's film that adults also love. It highlights the troubled production history but concludes the film's charm remains unsurpassed.

The review highlights the enduring iconic status and charm of the Technicolor musical fantasy despite its age and some dated elements. It singles out the witty script and visual spectacle for praise in a re-release context.

The review praises the digitally remastered reissue as representing old-school MGM filmmaking at its best, with stunning sets, make-up, costumes and music. It notes the familiarity from repeated viewings but affirms its enduring appeal despite aged effects.

The review notes that the film defies easy criticism and is a barmy but culturally resonant super-production. It singles out its reversal of dream/reality color schemes, matriarchal themes, and exploration of home and personal sovereignty for discussion.

The critic pans the film as lacking imagination, good taste, or ingenuity, citing awkward dialogue and garish Technicolor as examples of its vulgarity. He singles out the poor use of color and gags for complaint.

The critic praises the film's magnificent production values, Technicolor, tuneful songs and strong acting, especially Judy Garland as Dorothy. However, they note that its sophisticated outlook and mature humour make it appeal more to adults than children.

The review hails the film as a milestone in motion picture history that combines artistry with broad audience appeal and is headed for spectacular success. It singles out the superb cast, inventive production, direction, and musical elements for particular praise.

The critic calls The Wizard of Oz one of the greatest films ever made and an enduring American classic whose charm and storytelling have not diminished. They single out the joyful performances, integrated music, and the film's unfettered belief in itself for particular praise.

The critic views Victor Fleming's 1939 classic as a beguiling film whose strangeness, camp qualities, and committed world-building have ensured its enduring popularity, despite a story that decreases in interest as it progresses. The expressive performances, innovative sets, and subversive undertones are singled out for praise, while the lengthy Munchkin musical numbers are noted as tiresome for adult viewers.