The Wiz

Main Plot

"The Wiz," directed by Sidney Lumet, is a musical film adaptation of the Broadway play, which itself is a retelling of L. Frank Baum's classic "The Wizard of Oz." The story follows a young schoolteacher from Harlem who is magically transported to the urban fantasy land of Oz during a snowstorm. To find her way back home, she must journey to see the mysterious Wiz, who is said to have the power to grant her wish. Along the way, she befriends a scarecrow in search of a brain, a tin man desiring a heart, and a cowardly lion seeking courage. Together, they navigate the challenges and wonders of Oz, encountering various characters and obstacles. The film blends elements of fantasy and contemporary African-American culture, featuring vibrant musical numbers and elaborate set designs. Ultimately, it is a tale of self-discovery, friendship, and the realization that the power to achieve one's dreams lies within oneself.

Characters

• Diana Ross plays Dorothy, a shy Harlem schoolteacher who embarks on a magical journey to find her way home, discovering courage and friendship along the way.
• Michael Jackson played the Scarecrow, a character who joins Dorothy on her journey to find a brain and gain wisdom.
• Nipsey Russell played the Tin Man, a character seeking a heart, who joins Dorothy on her journey to the Emerald City to find the Wizard.

Ending Explained

In the conclusion of Sidney Lumet's "The Wiz," Dorothy and her friends—Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Lion—finally confront the Wicked Witch of the West, Evillene, in her lair. After a tense showdown, Dorothy manages to defeat Evillene by activating the sprinkler system, causing her to melt. With Evillene gone, her enslaved workers are freed and celebrate their liberation. Returning to the Emerald City, Dorothy and her companions discover that the Wiz is actually a fraudulent man from Atlantic City who has no magical powers. Despite this revelation, the Wiz helps each of Dorothy's friends realize that they already possess the qualities they sought: Scarecrow has intelligence, Tin Man has a heart, and Lion has courage. Glinda the Good Witch then appears and tells Dorothy that she has always had the power to return home by clicking her silver shoes together and wishing to go back. Dorothy bids farewell to her friends and, after clicking her heels, she is transported back to her apartment in Harlem. The film ends with Dorothy joyfully reunited with her Aunt Em, having learned valuable lessons about self-belief and the importance of home.