Watch The Wizard Of Baghdad

The Wizard of Baghdad is a delightful fantasy film that was released in 1960, directed by George Sherman and starring Dick Shawn, Diane Baker, and Barry Coe. The film tells the story of a young man named Kamar who dreams of becoming the greatest wizard in Baghdad, a city known for its magical arts. It is a delightful romp of a movie that will enchant viewers of all ages.

Kamar is played by Dick Shawn, an actor known for his appearances in The Producers and It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World. He is a young man with an insatiable curiosity about the world of magic, and he spends much of his time studying ancient texts and experimenting with spells. His dream is to become the greatest wizard in Baghdad, not just for the fame and fortune it would bring him, but for the good he could do for the people of the city.

One day, while exploring the city's marketplace, Kamar meets a beautiful princess named Najma (Diane Baker). She is a member of the ruling family of Baghdad, and she is immediately taken with Kamar's wit and charm. They strike up a conversation, and she is soon charmed by his stories of his love for magic and his ambitions to become a great wizard.

However, their meeting is cut short when Najma is kidnapped by a scheming sorcerer named Jaudah (Barry Coe). Jaudah has his sights set on the throne of Baghdad, and he plans to use Najma as a way to gain power and influence over the city. Kamar is devastated by Najma's disappearance and vows to do everything he can to rescue her.

He sets out on a journey through the world of magic, encountering a variety of fantastical creatures and obstacles along the way. He is aided by a wise old magician named Jiddah (Kamal Mehra), who teaches him valuable lessons about the nature of magic and the importance of his mission.

The film is filled with delightful set pieces and memorable characters, including a genial giant, a mischievous imp, and a sinister serpent. The special effects are impressive for their time, with colorful spells and transformations that bring the world of magic to life. The film is also notable for its charming musical numbers, including "Abracadabra" and "My Love Is Yours".

In addition to its entertaining story and lively characters, The Wizard of Baghdad is also notable for its cultural significance. The film was one of the first Hollywood productions to feature an almost entirely Arab cast, and it was shot on location in India to give the film a more authentic feel. While the film is clearly a product of its time, with some outdated cultural tropes and stereotypes, it is still an important example of how Hollywood has depicted Middle Eastern cultures throughout its history.

Overall, The Wizard of Baghdad is a delightful fantasy film that is sure to enchant viewers of all ages. With its memorable characters, impressive special effects, and charming musical numbers, it is a classic example of Hollywood's golden age of cinema. Whether you're a fan of fantasy or just looking for an enjoyable film to watch with the family, The Wizard of Baghdad is a must-see.