Return to Oz

Name: Return to Oz
Director: Walter Murch
Genre: Adventure, Family, Fantasy
Released: 1985-01-01
Duration: 109 min
Rating: 6.7
Cast: Fairuza Balk, Nicol Williamson, Jean Marsh, Piper Laurie, Matt Clark

1985Dir. Walter Murch1h 49m

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Runtime1h 49m

Released1985

Budget$25M

Box office$11.1M

DirectorWalter Murch

About This Movie

Return to Oz is a fascinating blend of adventure and fantasy, directed by Walter Murch, who really brings a unique touch. The tone is darker than you'd expect from a family film, almost haunting in its atmosphere. Dorothy’s journey back to Oz is filled with quirky characters and some genuinely creepy moments, which sets it apart from the original. The practical effects are a standout—those puppets and sets create a tangible world that feels both whimsical and unsettling. The pacing meanders a bit, giving you time to absorb the oddities of this version of Oz. Fairuza Balk’s performance as Dorothy brings a rawness that really resonates amidst the fantastical chaos. It’s definitely a different take on the classic story, for better or worse, depending on your perspective.

Includes themes of mental health and resilience.Notable for its practical effects and puppetry.Contrasts sharply with the 1939 classic.