No film in history has had more impact on American cinema than The Wizard of Oz, the prototype for the monster-sized, soundtrack-infused color pictures that have come to define big-studio movies. Of course, it also paved the way for movie-inspired merchandise, sequels, remakes, and retellings. But ignore the orgy of consumerism; at its heart, the film is a beautiful American fairy tale about a lonely 14-year-old girl who escapes her dreary world by going over the rainbow to a colorful world of acceptance inhabited by a sissy lion, an overly emotive metal man, and a swarm of dancing diminutive delights. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the films release, and to celebrate the occasion Turner Classic Movies is sponsoring a one-night-only nationwide screening of The Wizard of Oz. The movie has been re-mastered and will show the lovely Land of Oz in all its glory with the Lolly Pop Guild, the ruby-red slippers, the evil flying monkeys for the first time, in High Definition. Several cineplexes across the tricounty area will show the film tonight at 7 p.m.
Also playing at Royal Palm Stadium 18, Shadowood 16, Downtown At The Gardens 16 Cinemas, and Cypress Creek Station 16, among other South Florida theaters. Prices vary. Visit ncm.com/Fathom/Premiere/WizardofOz.aspx.
Wed., Sept. 23, 7 p.m., 2009