The Wiz - 5 stars out of 10

The Wiz - 5 stars out of 10

"The Wiz" is a cool, funky interpretation of "The Wizard of Oz."  Unfortunately, this movie version misses a beat.  I did find the NYC atmosphere to be a really cool departure from the standard story, particularly the Tin Man's carnival atmosphere and the skyscraper Emerald City, but the filmmakers got so wrapped up in the bells and whistles that they lost the heart of the story.  It just doesn't feel like The Wizard of Oz.  By turning Dorothy into an adult role so that Diana Ross could play it, the youthful innocence (and subsequent important life lesson) is lost.  Michael Jackson is excellent as the Scarecrow, especially when he sings with the crows.  Nipsey Russell was a great Tinman, even though his crying was a little bit annoying.  And after a perfect set-up by timidly peeking out from behind the giant metallic head, Richard Pryor just had to stand there to make the Wizard a memorable character.  The film is filled with stars and catchy music, but it becomes a show instead of a story with an important moral.  Even though it isn't the best film that I've ever seen, it was worth watching for it's awesome choreography and slice of 1970's culture.  I enjoyed the music but I can see why this was heavily panned by critics and hope that they'll remake this again soon with a focus on the story.