Lap up the rainbow

Rating: Null/10 (6 February 2000)

This eternal gem of a film enters the digital revolution with ever-increasing appeal. Glowing healthier than ever before, this 1998 restoration seems to be the definitive version. The DVD format laps up the rainbow so wondrously that you might occasionally feel you're in Oz... As a perpetual lover of this film, I personally feel it has only improved with age. The original three-strip Technicolor hues of the DVD release are now vibrantly restored to their former lustre. One must praise the work of the restorers who seem to have obliterated any vestiges of artefacts or impurities from the Master print. Technicians have also color corrected former garish shades to subtle and more realistic variations. The film looks so breathtakingly sharp and clean that you might stop and wonder if it was filmed late last year. It would be safe to say that audiences of 1939 could not possibly have viewed the film with such articulate clarity and definition. Never have I been so taken aback while viewing Dorothy's entrance from bleak sepia tones to Oz's gorgeously rich colors. Other versions I have seen of this transforming scene do not convey the fluidity of movement and color shade that only DVD at its best can offer. The sharpness of the print allows us more than ever to become Dorothy's companions along her magical quest. Thanks to modern technology, our generation is allowed the privilege in seeing this classic as it so rightly deserves. This special DVD release also comes with many extra treasures. A behind-the-scenes documentary by Angela Lansbury journeys the film's making, while vintage movie clips, cartoons, outtake musical numbers, cast interviews and much more will keep many a buff awake. A must have for anyone interested in great classics. Take my word for it!