After the Wizard is a cute and quirky film which follows some of the OZ characters after Dorothy's return to Kansas. If you are looking for a sweet heartfelt family-friendly film with nostalgic views of the power of American Midwestern values: compassion, love, hope, perseverance, gratitude, friendship, kindness to strangers and animals, imagination, second chances, self-reliance, the importance of reading, thinking on one's own, this film fits the bill. This film will especially appeal to Oz fans and people who love dogs. If you are looking for a Hollywood big budget, slick, high-speed, violent, action film which highlights special effects, this film is not for you.
In his directorial debut, Hugh Gross, who also wrote the screenplay pays tribute to L. Frank Baum and his series of The Wizard of Oz books. Gross testifies to the influence the stories and their derivative films have had on generations of Americans.
The film has two threads intertwining throughout the story. One is the story of Elizabeth, a modern day "Dorothy" trying to survive real life adolescent problems. The film hints that Elizabeth, an orphan, has undergone severe hardship, resulting in her belief that she is "Dorothy" of Oz fame. The second thread is the Scarecrow and Tin Woodman, traveling across the United States, searching out "Dorothy" when things go amuck in OZ. This second thread adds comic relief and a series of life lessons, as the Scarecrow and the Tin Woodman undertake their journey.
Orien Richman and Jermel Nakia, respectively portrayed the Tin Woodman and the Scarecrow with sweet innocence. P. David Miller, as the Lion, captured both the fear and courage of his character. Jordan Van Vranken as Elizabeth, Helen Richman as Mrs. Murphy, and Loren Lester, as Dr. Edwards were believable. Peter Mark Richman played a likable and charming Charles Samuel Williams.
I smiled throughout Seraiah Carol's short but enjoyable scene as an animal shelter attendant.
Dana Rice's photography was striking, particularly the shots of the landscapes of the American Midwest. Stephen Main's music excelled in evoking emotional response throughout the film.
This is a film with both a heart and a brain and I highly recommend it.
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