Digest

The podcast episode begins with listener mail and corrections regarding "Return to Oz," delving into George Lucas's involvement, the practical effects for Tik-Tok, and comparisons to L. Frank Baum's books, which are noted as more whimsical. Discussions touch upon potential copyright influences on Disney's visual choices and the film's dark themes, with interpretations of Princess Ozma as a potential early transgender character. The episode also announces a listener mail winner, features updates from Jason on his Broadway performance and Taskmaster Live, recommends the TV show "Landman" and anime series "Frieren" and "The Apothecary Diaries," and previews next week's movie, "Date with an Angel."

Outlines

00:00:00

Listener Mail and "Return to Oz" Discussion

The episode starts with listener feedback on "Return to Oz," covering George Lucas's involvement, practical effects for Tik-Tok, and comparisons to the L. Frank Baum books, noting the film's darker tone. Discussions also explore copyright influences on visual choices and the film's disturbing themes, including interpretations of Princess Ozma.

00:17:49

Listener Mail Winner, Broadway, and Taskmaster Updates

Mav is announced as the listener mail winner, with a humorous presentation by Belina the Chicken. Jason provides an update on his Broadway performance in "All Out" and his experience with Taskmaster Live in New York.

00:32:32

"Landman" and Anime Recommendations

The hosts discuss the critically acclaimed TV series "Landman," highlighting its unique tone and performances. They also recommend anime series such as "Frieren" and "The Apothecary Diaries."

00:39:29

Next Week's Movie: "Date with an Angel"

The hosts announce that next week's movie will be the 1987 romantic comedy-fantasy "Date with an Angel," discussing its plot, reception, and availability on Tubi.

Keywords

Q&A

• What was George Lucas's role in the production of "Return to Oz"?

  George Lucas intervened when director Walter Murch was initially fired, vouching for him and advising on the film for a few weeks, potentially contributing to some of its unique ideas.

• How were the practical effects for Tik-Tok in "Return to Oz" achieved?

  Tik-Tok was operated from the inside by a trampolineist, Michael Sudan, who performed in a difficult, inverted position, limiting his time in the suit to brief intervals.

• Why did Disney's "Return to Oz" have a different visual style than the 1939 "Wizard of Oz"?

  It is speculated that Disney avoided using elements from the MGM film due to copyright and trademark concerns, necessitating a unique visual approach for their adaptation.

• Are the original "Return to Oz" books as dark as the movie?

  Many listeners find the L. Frank Baum books to be significantly more whimsical and less menacing than the film adaptation.

• What is the significance of Princess Ozma's character?

  Princess Ozma is a character from the Oz books who was raised as a boy, leading to discussions about her being an early example of transgender representation in children's literature.

• What is the TV series "Landman" and why is it recommended?

  "Landman" is a critically acclaimed TV series praised for its distinctive, intense tone and compelling performances, drawing comparisons to films like "Face/Off."

• Which anime series were recommended in the episode?

  The episode recommended "Frieren: Beyond Journey's End" Season 2 and "The Apothecary Diaries," both lauded for their storytelling and emotional depth.

• What is the next movie to be featured on the podcast?

  The next movie to be discussed is the 1987 romantic comedy-fantasy "Date with an Angel," which is available on the Tubi streaming service.

Show Notes