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The Wizard of Oz

Name: The Wizard of Oz
Director: Jim Simon
Released: 1991
Duration: 25 min

Representation Score

5.6/10

Fair

1991

Director

Jim Simon

Runtime

25 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

This 1991 animated adaptation follows a classic hero’s journey. While it features a female protagonist and a diverse group of companions, the narrative adheres to traditional storytelling rather than deconstructing social hierarchies. The film’s diversity lies in its non-human characters. However, without specific details on visual design or character's ability to drive the story, it is hard to determine if these characters serve as meaningful representations of diversity or remain traditional fantasy figures. Overall, the film operates as a conventional adaptation, prioritizing a quest for ability to act and a return to domestic stability over modern symbolic shifts or the subversion of established norms.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Wizard of Oz have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film highlights a close friendship between Dorothy and her companions, but there is no indication of LGBTQ+ identities or queer narratives.

How does The Wizard of Oz portray gender?

Fair

Dorothy is a strong female lead who drives the story and faces significant challenges. However, the plot follows a traditional adventure format.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Wizard of Oz?

Fair

The magical world includes non-human characters such as the Scarecrow and Tin Man. It is unclear whether these characters challenge or reinforce traditional racial stereotypes.

How does The Wizard of Oz represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story centers around a classic Western quest, emphasizing traditional morality and the defeat of a villainous figure.

Does The Wizard of Oz include disability representation?

Limited

The Scarecrow and Tin Man might represent characters with physical or cognitive differences. It is unclear if these characters have meaningful roles or are used simply as plot devices.

Present on Screen

Dorothy is a strong female lead who drives the plot.
The ensemble cast includes a variety of non-human characters.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight-centered perspectives.
The narrative relies on traditional Western quest structures without challenging systemic or cultural hierarchies.
It is unclear if the characters’ physical or cognitive differences are treated with meaningful ability to act.

Official Synopsis

L.Frank Baum's classic. Dorothy and her dog, Toto, are whisked away from their home in Kansas and find themselves in the magical land of Oz. While on her journey to find the Wizard, hoping he will help her to return home, Dorothy meets the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion. Together they destroy the Wicked Witch and make it to the Emerald City.

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