The Wizard of Oz
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Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to The Wizard of Oz
The Wizard of Oz is a classic 1939 American musical fantasy film based on L. Frank Baum's 1900 novel, following young Dorothy Gale as she is swept away by a tornado from her Kansas farm to the magical Land of Oz. Accompanied by her dog Toto and new friends – the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion – Dorothy embarks on a journey along the Yellow Brick Road to the Emerald City, hoping the powerful Wizard of Oz can help her return home. Along the way, they face the threats of the Wicked Witch of the West. The film is celebrated for its groundbreaking use of Technicolor, memorable songs, and enduring themes of courage, intelligence, heart, and the importance of home, appealing to a broad audience, though some content can be intense for younger viewers.
Things to Consider
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
While the 1939 film does not explicitly portray LGBTQ+ characters or themes, it holds significant cultural importance within the queer community and is frequently interpreted through an LGBTQ+ lens. The term 'Friend of Dorothy' became a widely recognized code phrase for gay men, referencing Dorothy Gale's journey and her acceptance of her 'queer friends' in Oz. Actresses involved, such as Judy Garland and Billie Burke (Glinda), also contribute to its queer legacy.
The Cowardly Lion, portrayed by Bert Lahr, is widely recognized as a 'gay-coded' character, described by commentators as 'sissy,' 'flamboyant, effeminate, and self-oppressive,' due to his mannerisms and rejection of traditional masculinity. Additionally, Dorothy's journey from the 'black-and-white limitations of small-town life' in Kansas to the 'big, colorful cities filled with quirky, gender-bending characters' in Oz is a powerful allegory for the queer experience of seeking acceptance and 'found family.'
Witchcraft & Occult
Magic and witchcraft are central themes throughout The Wizard of Oz, depicted through characters like Glinda the Good Witch and the Wicked Witch of the West, as well as the 'magic' of the Wizard (which is later revealed as illusion). The film presents both benevolent and malevolent uses of supernatural powers.
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Additional Context
Best For Ages
Parental guidance is recommended for children under 8, and the film may not be suitable for children under 5 due to several frightening scenes and mild thematic violence. For children aged 8 and over, it is generally considered acceptable.
Good to Know
The runtime of the 1939 film is approximately 102 minutes. There are no widely recognized extended or director's cuts that significantly alter the content. While the film is a classic, parents should be mindful of the potentially frightening elements for very young children and be prepared to discuss the thematic interpretations, particularly regarding magic and the underlying messages, from a Christian worldview.
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