Oz the Great and Powerful

Oscar Diggs is a glib Kansas con artist who makes his living by pulling off small-time tricks and quick escapes. An unpredictable storm whisks him from a dusty tent into the dazzling Land of Oz, where villagers instantly crown him the prophecy's great wizard. Thrown into a world of wonders and dangers, he must pretend to be a hero even as doubts about his own talents gnaw at him. He teams up with three witches and a wary band of locals, navigating deceptive magic, shifting loyalties, and the pressure to live up to a legend he barely believes in. No one stays what they seem for long. The magical realm tests his nerve and hints at a future beyond tricks.

Directed by Sam Raimi, Oz the Great and Powerful adapts Baum's world for a modern family audience. The screenplay by Mitchell Kapner and David Lindsay-Abaire, with performances by James Franco, Mila Kunis, Rachel Weisz, Michelle Williams, and Zach Braff worldwide.

Worldwide box office reached 491,868,548 against a 200,000,000 budget, showing solid global appeal for a lavish family fantasy set in the Oz universe. It drew audiences in North America and overseas, backed by strong marketing worldwide, and word of mouth.

Cultural conversation around the film highlighted its lush visuals and reinvention of the Oz myth for a new generation. The design of Emerald City and the witch characters left a recognizable footprint in fantasy cinema and family entertainment. Memorable scenes lingered in fan discussions and inspired theme park tie ins.

Critics praised the film for its production values and performances, especially Williams and Kunis, while noting uneven pacing and tonal shifts. The story leans into themes like reinvention, courage under pressure, and the consequences of deception when lives depend on belief. Its reception sparked debates about prequels in classic franchises.