The Wiz

Watch The Wiz

"From the book that's an American tradition… from the smash-hit Broadway show… the entertainment of the year!"
  • G
  • 1978
  • 2 hr 14 min
  • 5.5  (16,543)
  • 53

The Wiz is a musical fantasy film released in 1978, directed by Sidney Lumet and starring Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, and Nipsey Russell. The film is an adaptation of the Broadway musical of the same name and is a retelling of the classic story of The Wizard of Oz. The story follows Dorothy, a young schoolteacher from Harlem, who is whisked away to the Land of Oz by a snowstorm. On her journey, she meets a scarecrow, a tin man, and a cowardly lion who also seek something that they are missing in their lives. Together they journey to meet the Wiz, a powerful wizard who they hope can help them find what they seek. However, their journey is not easy as they have to battle the evil Witch of the West, who seeks to prevent them from reaching the Wiz.

The Wiz is a visual feast that boasts magnificent sets, costumes, and choreography. It's a vibrant and colorful world where the Land of Oz is reimagined as a magical version of New York City. The film is set against the backdrop of the late 1970s and is characterized by its funky and soulful music score, which is one of its biggest draws.

Diana Ross is captivating as Dorothy, bringing her own characteristics to the character while retaining her inherent vulnerability and resilience. Michael Jackson plays the role of the Scarecrow, and his performance is both charming and charismatic. He brings energy to an otherwise comical role and is a joy to watch. The same can be said for Nipsey Russell, who brings a sense of humor to the role of the Tin Man, creating a character that is both lovable and memorable. The late Richard Pryor also makes a notable cameo in the film as the Wiz's assistant, adding to the film's star-studded cast.

The Wiz is a magical experience that is both timeless and endearing. It provides a unique and refreshing take on a classic tale and boasts a cast of talented performers who bring the story to life. The film's musical numbers are unforgettable, and the characters are lovable, making it a must-watch for anyone who enjoys musicals and fantasy films.

In conclusion, The Wiz is a fantastic film that showcases the talents of some of the biggest names in show business, including Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. It's a vibrant and colorful musical that manages to capture the essence of hope, courage, and self-discovery. The film is a classic that continues to entertain audiences to this day and is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good musical or fantasy film.

The Wiz is a 1978 adventure movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 14 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5 and a MetaScore of 53.

The Wiz
Description
Where to Watch The Wiz
The Wiz is available to watch, stream, download and buy on demand at Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, YouTube VOD and Vudu. Some platforms allow you to rent The Wiz for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    1978
  • MPAA Rating
    G
  • Runtime
    2 hr 14 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    5.5  (16,543)
  • Metascore
    53