The Wiz
In this very updated version of the well beloved children's classic " The Wizard of Oz," movie watchers are transported to a world of music, neat special effects, eye-popping costumes, and a fantastic retelling of the tale of the wonderful wizard of Oz. "The Wiz" is one of the best African American musicals ever made because it has a great cast of actors and actresses, it has hidden symbolism that relates to African American life, and the choice of music adds power to its message. This musical depicts the struggle of " black" life through song and rhythm, two aspects of African American culture. It is a remake of "The Wizard of Oz" with the same story, same characters, and an added twist of soul. The cast of "The Wiz" is composed of many talented people. Legendary soul mega star Diana Ross plays the 34-year old kindergarten teacher better known as Dorothy. Diana Ross is known for her many songs as well as her career as the lead singer of the trio "The Supremes." The "King of Pop," Michael Jackson plays the part of the brain needy Scarecrow. His dancing skills and smooth voice bring this character to life.
"The Wiz" sends its message not only through symbolism, but also through music. The four main characters perform the most popular song in the movie, "Ease on Down the Road," They sing this as they are following the Yellow Brick Road. Its underlying message is go for your dreams, no matter what they are, but it takes time to achieve them. A new message is sent through the song "Believe in Yourself", which is performed by Glinda the Good. This song is about self-confidence and the strength to move on in life. The final song sums up the whole movie. Dorothy sings " Home", where one can be their self and not worry about other people's thoughts or views about them. Home is a comfort zone for everyone, "there's no place like home." Many of the movie's themes are summarized through song and therefore create the overall tone of the original story. African American culture is defined within the underlying themes of this musical. For example, the name of the Lion is Fleetwood Coupe de Ville, which is the name of a well-known Cadillac. In the 70s, Cadillacs were the "kings of the road," much like lions are
Some common words found in the essay are:
African American, Fleetwood Coupe, Believe Yourself, Wizard Oz, Valerie Simpson, African Americans, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Brick Road, Richard Pryor, african american, wizard oz, american culture, african american culture, diana ross, underlying message, african american life, horne jazz, american life,
Approximate Word count = 754
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)
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