Blu-ray

The Wiz

Call Number

  • BLU-RAY MUSICAL (CEN)

Edition

Blu-ray special edition.

Languages

English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.

Performers

Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Nipsy Russell, Ted Ross, Mabel King, Theresa Merritt, Thelma Carpenter, Lena Horne, Richard Pryor.

Publication Information

[New York, NY] : Criterion Collection, [2025]

Physical Description

1 videodisc (134 minutes) : sound, color ; 4 3/4 in. + 1 folded sheet (color illustrations ; 16 cm)

Audience

MPAA rating: G.

Summary

"L. Frank Baum's timeless story The Wonderful Wizard of Oz gets a funky reimagining in this lavish adaptation of a landmark Broadway show based on the book. Diana Ross brings her showstopping star power to the role of Dorothy, here a Harlem schoolteacher who is magically transported to a surreal fantasyland that resembles New York City, complete with man-eating trash cans and a disco paradise. Propelled by the musical contributions of Quincy Jones and an all-star cast that includes Michael Jackson, Richard Pryor, and Lena Horne, this dazzling soul spectacular from legendary director Sidney Lumet reframes a beloved tale through the Black American experience, creating a powerful celebration of self-determination."--Container.

Notes

Based on the play The Wiz, book by William F. Brown, music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls, produced on the New York stage by Ken Harper.

Originally released as a motion picture in 1978.

Special features: New 4K digital restoration, approved by producer Rob Cohen, with Dolby Atmos soundtrack ; new audio commentary featuring scholars Michael B. Gillespie and Alfred L. Martin ; archival interviews with director Sidney Lumet and actor Diana Ross ; trailer.

Subjects