The Wiz (1978)

The Wiz (1978)

The Wiz (1978) – 4K Ultra HD Disc Review
Universal / Criterion Collection | 134 min | G | June 10, 2025
Genres: Musical, Fantasy, Adventure, Family


Video Quality – 4.5/5
Criterion brings The Wiz to life with a gorgeous new 4K restoration sourced from the original camera negative and presented in native 2160p with Dolby Vision and HDR10. The vibrant colors of Oz—from the glowing Yellow Brick Road to the dazzling Emerald City—shine with stunning clarity and depth. Shadow detail is significantly improved, and fine textures in costumes and sets look crisp without sacrificing the film’s dreamlike atmosphere.

Audio Quality – 4.5/5
The Dolby Atmos remix is immersive and respectful of the original sound design. Quincy Jones’ funky, gospel-infused score is bold and clean, while dialogue and vocals come through clearly. The musical numbers truly soar in this upgraded sound mix—especially standout sequences like “Ease on Down the Road” and “Brand New Day.”

Special Features – 4/5 (on the included Blu-ray)

  • New commentary by film scholars Michael B. Gillespie & Alfred L. Martin Jr.
  • Archival interviews with Diana Ross and director Sidney Lumet
  • Theatrical trailer
  • Illustrated booklet with an essay by critic Aisha Harris

Overall Recommendation – 4.5/5
The Wiz shines in this Criterion 4K release, both visually and sonically. It’s a must-own for musical lovers, collectors of culturally significant cinema, and fans of Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. While the film is uneven in places, its bold vision and the incredible upgrade in presentation make this disc a magical experience worth owning.

$29.99

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Description

The Wiz (1978) – 4K Ultra HD Disc Review
Universal / Criterion Collection | 134 min | G | June 10, 2025
Genres: Musical, Fantasy, Adventure, Family


Video Quality – 4.5/5
Criterion brings The Wiz to life with a gorgeous new 4K restoration sourced from the original camera negative and presented in native 2160p with Dolby Vision and HDR10. The vibrant colors of Oz—from the glowing Yellow Brick Road to the dazzling Emerald City—shine with stunning clarity and depth. Shadow detail is significantly improved, and fine textures in costumes and sets look crisp without sacrificing the film’s dreamlike atmosphere.

Audio Quality – 4.5/5
The Dolby Atmos remix is immersive and respectful of the original sound design. Quincy Jones’ funky, gospel-infused score is bold and clean, while dialogue and vocals come through clearly. The musical numbers truly soar in this upgraded sound mix—especially standout sequences like “Ease on Down the Road” and “Brand New Day.”

Special Features – 4/5 (on the included Blu-ray)

  • New commentary by film scholars Michael B. Gillespie & Alfred L. Martin Jr.
  • Archival interviews with Diana Ross and director Sidney Lumet
  • Theatrical trailer
  • Illustrated booklet with an essay by critic Aisha Harris

Overall Recommendation – 4.5/5
The Wiz shines in this Criterion 4K release, both visually and sonically. It’s a must-own for musical lovers, collectors of culturally significant cinema, and fans of Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. While the film is uneven in places, its bold vision and the incredible upgrade in presentation make this disc a magical experience worth owning.

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