4K Blu-ray Review: The Wizard of Oz

Synopsis:​ ​Adapted from L. Frank Baum's timeless children's tale about a Kansas girl's journey over the rainbow, The Wizard of Oz officially premiered at Grauman's Chinese Theater on August 15, 1939. The film was directed by Victor Fleming (who that same year directed Gone With the Wind), produced by Mervyn LeRoy, and scored by Herbert Stothart, with music and lyrics by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg. Ray Bolger appeared as the Scarecrow; Bert Lahr as the Cowardly Lion, Jack Haley as the Tin Woodman. Frank Morgan was seen in six different roles, including that of the "wonderful Wizard" himself. Dorothy was portrayed by a 4'11" sixteen year old girl who quickly earned her reputation as "the world's greatest entertainer"-- the incomparable Judy Garland.

Main Feature: "The Wizard of Oz" was never a film I embraced as a child. Sure, moments scare the heck out of a kid, but as I grew older, I still didn't care for the film much. What I did care for was the stature in film circles. It makes people happy, notably my aunt--she is to this film what I am to "Star Wars." All that being said, I am happy to say my opinion has improved thanks to a stunning presentation with this new 4K Blu-ray release. The colors don't seem much changed, but it certainly pops beautifully in UHD. The opening scenes in Kansas look delightfully old fashioned in the sepia tone, while the land of Oz is vibrant in color.

Bonus Features: It appears the majority of the special features are nothing new from past standard Blu-ray releases, including audio commentary and interviews. A digital code for redemption is also included. The biggest special feature is the 4K presentation of the main film, honestly. 

Final Call: "The Wizard of Oz" in UHD feels right at home in the vibrant 4K resolution.

Grade: B+