I’ve been happily reading all the press releases for “Oz the Great and Powerful,” posting the photos and posters, and watching the trailers since the movie was first announced. The time when I actually get to see the movie is drawing nigh, and I can’t wait for that. The movie opens in U.S. theaters and IMAX on March 8, 2013.
But for now, here’s another set of photos, this time from the movie’s premiere at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood on Feb. 13, 2013. Part of their marketing plan is a “balloon tour” — a hot-air balloon emblazoned with the movie’s title, which actually began at the Hollywood premiere. James Franco, who plays Oscar Diggs in the movie, looks right at home in that balloon, doesn’t he? He’s so fearless and crazy that I could see him actually riding this balloon cross-country. Other tour dates:
- Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif. (February 17)
- Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla. (February 20)
- Central Park in New York City (March 5 & 6)
There’s an app on the official Facebook page for the film where fans will have the opportunity to unlock screenings in cities near them. Users can vote by Tweeting with a custom hashtag for their city (e.g. #DisneyOzSeattle) or by sharing on Facebook.
Directed by Sam Raimi, “Oz the Great and Powerful” imagines the origins of L. Frank Baum’s beloved wizard character. When Oscar Diggs (James Franco), a small-time circus magician with dubious ethics, is hurled away from dusty Kansas to the vibrant Land of Oz, he thinks he’s hit the jackpot — fame and fortune are his for the taking—that is until he meets three witches, Theodora (Mila Kunis), Evanora (Rachel Weisz) and Glinda (Michelle Williams), who are not convinced he is the great wizard everyone’s been expecting.
Reluctantly drawn into the epic problems facing the Land of Oz and its inhabitants, Oscar must find out who is good and who is evil before it is too late. Putting his magical arts to use through illusion, ingenuity—and even a bit of wizardry—Oscar transforms himself not only into the great wizard but into a better man as well.
“Oz The Great and Powerful” is produced by Joe Roth, with screen story by Mitchell Kapner and screenplay by Mitchell Kapner and David Lindsay-Abaire. Grant Curtis, Palak Patel, Josh Donen and Philip Steuer are serving as executive producers.
