The Wiz: Coming To The Criterion Collection This June

Viktoria Ivanova

4 min read

Post on May 06, 2025

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Why The Wiz's Criterion Release is a Big Deal

The arrival of The Wiz in the Criterion Collection is significant for several reasons. It signifies not only the recognition of a classic film but also the acknowledgement of its profound cultural impact.

A Celebratory Look at a Cultural Phenomenon

The Wiz, a vibrant reimagining of L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, set against the backdrop of 1970s Harlem, transcended its source material to become a cultural phenomenon. This 1978 film redefined the musical landscape, showcasing the power of Black artistry and storytelling on a grand scale.

• Impact on Black Cinema: The Wiz provided a powerful platform for Black actors, musicians, and creatives, offering a representation rarely seen in mainstream Hollywood at the time. Its influence on subsequent generations of Black filmmakers is undeniable.
• Enduring Musical Legacy: The film's soundtrack, featuring iconic songs like "Ease on Down the Road" and "Home," remains a staple of popular culture, influencing generations of artists. Its enduring popularity highlights the film's timeless appeal.
• Cultural Influence: Beyond its musical contributions, The Wiz impacted fashion, dance, and overall cultural expression, leaving an indelible mark on the artistic landscape of the late 1970s and beyond.

The Criterion Collection's Significance

The Criterion Collection is renowned for its meticulous restoration and preservation of cinematic masterpieces. Inclusion in this prestigious collection is a mark of exceptional quality and lasting cultural significance.

• High-Quality Restoration: Expect a stunning 4K restoration, delivering superior picture and sound quality. Criterion's commitment to detail ensures the film will be presented in its best possible form for modern audiences.
• Extensive Special Features: Criterion releases are famed for their extensive special features, often including behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, commentary tracks, and more. This release promises to unlock new insights into the making of this iconic film.
• Collector's Edition: The Criterion Collection's releases are highly sought-after by collectors, making this release a must-have for serious cinephiles and fans of The Wiz. The high-definition Blu-ray presentation ensures a premium viewing experience.

What to Expect from the Criterion Release of The Wiz

This Criterion release promises to be a definitive edition of The Wiz, offering a superior viewing experience and valuable supplementary materials.

Special Features and Extras

While the full list of special features is yet to be revealed, we can anticipate a rich array of bonus content, potentially including:

• A comprehensive making-of documentary exploring the challenges and triumphs of bringing this ambitious project to life.
• Deleted scenes providing a glimpse into alternative versions of the film.
• New interviews with cast and crew members, offering fresh perspectives and insights.
• A commentary track with film scholars or those involved in the original production.

Improved Audio and Visual Quality

This Criterion release will undoubtedly boast superior audio and visual quality compared to previous home video releases. Expect:

• A 4K Ultra HD presentation, offering significantly improved resolution and detail.
• Restored audio, ensuring a clear and immersive soundscape.
• Enhanced color grading, bringing the vibrant world of The Wiz to life.

Packaging and Artwork

The Criterion release of The Wiz will almost certainly feature stunning packaging and artwork reflecting the film's iconic aesthetic. Expect:

• High-quality packaging befitting a collector's edition.
• Beautiful artwork capturing the spirit and vibrancy of the original film.
• Possibly a booklet with essays and other supplementary materials.

Pre-ordering The Wiz Criterion Release

Don't miss out on this magical event! Pre-order your copy of The Wiz now from the Criterion Collection's online store or your preferred retailer, such as Amazon. Limited edition releases may also be available, so secure your copy before they're gone!

Conclusion: Don't Miss the Magical Arrival of The Wiz in the Criterion Collection

The June release of The Wiz in the Criterion Collection is more than just a home video release; it's a cultural event. This definitive edition, with its stunning restoration, insightful special features, and collector-worthy packaging, is a must-have for fans of the film, collectors of Criterion releases, and anyone who appreciates groundbreaking cinema and enduring musical legacies. Pre-order your copy now and experience the magic of The Wiz like never before! Don't miss this limited edition, and secure your copy before the June release date!