Common Sense Media Review
By Christie Cronan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Inspiring pop culture icon docu with mature themes.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
It’s Dorothy!
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
IT'S DOROTHY! examines why the character of Dorothy Gale from The Wizard of Oz has remained meaningful and relevant for over 125 years as a pop culture icon, an immortal legend, and a symbol of hope. Through a series of interviews with actresses, historians, authors, artists, and fans, this film highlights the heroine who continues to inspire, revise, reinvent, evolve, defy, and endure.
Is It Any Good?
A whimsical examination of a beloved character, this film embodies hope with a nostalgic walk down the yellow brick road and over the rainbow. Through its essay-style presentation, celebrity interviews, research studies, film clips, and behind-the-scenes footage, this documentary explores the pop culture character's long-lasting effects on the human experience. From icon to legacy, Dorothy Gale continues to grow, change, and adapt, refusing to give up her pedestal as a meaningful influence for good, and for all of us.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Dorothy Gale has stayed so popular and relevant over the years. What makes her so symbolic to so many different people and groups, spanning across generations? What do you think the filmmakers want audiences to learn about Dorothy?
Which "Dorothy" do you identify with the most? Why? How might different people connect with Dorothy's portrayal and story in different ways?
Have you ever felt like Dorothy: lost, unsure, and wanting to get home? How could Dorothy's character, choices, and actions help inspire you when you're feeling down?
If you made a documentary about your favorite character, what messages would you want audiences to take away about your character?
Movie Details
- In theaters : June 7, 2025
- On DVD or streaming : March 13, 2026
- Cast : Ashanti , Fairuza Balk , Shanice Williams
- Director : Jeffrey McHale
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Bright Productions
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : Activism ( LGBTQ+ rights , Racial justice ) , Book Characters , History
- Character Strengths : Courage , Empathy , Integrity , Perseverance
- Run time : 97 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : April 2, 2026
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