As a tribute movie to the Wizard of Oz, OZ: The Great and Powerful has a somewhat strange black and white beginning, which leaves you a bit bewildered. The story takes a turn when the lead character of the wizard, played by James Franco is captured by a tornado which leads him to the colourful world of Oz.

The wizard (also known as Oscar) is not quite as he appears and misleads the people of Oz by pretending to be the real wizard, when in fact he is nothing but a con artist magician. When he hooks up with one of the good witches (played by Michelle Williams), he conjures up a plan to ensure the people truly believe he is a wizard and in turn, fights the evil of the bad witches (played by Mila Kunis and Rachel Weisz.)

Despite the confusing start, OZ: The Great and Powerful turns out to be an overall good movie, with tear jerking scenes, including the part when Oscar glues the legs of a broken doll and lots of laughs throughout. The colourful and vibrant world of Oz is captivating and the ending offers a feel good factor which you would expect from such a movie.

James Franco is perhaps not the perfect actor to play the part of the wizard as he doesn’t quite show the strength you would expect from this lead role. Michelle Williams, Mila Kunis and Rachel Weisz however, are at their best in this movie and are well cast for their roles.

Overall, this is a good movie which is suitable for both adults and children. It is a good choice if you want a bit of light entertainment when you are looking at the cinema listings and you can find it showing in Showcase Cinemas throughout the country.