Common Sense Media Review
By Barbara Schultz
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Oz prequel has sweet message, cloying songs.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
LION OF OZ is an animated prequel to the familiar book The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, which inspired the classic film The Wizard of Oz. When the movie begins, the central character, Lion, is the main attraction in the Omaha Magnificent Circus. Most people fear the lion, but Oscar, the man who takes visitors on hot air balloon rides, is friendly to Lion, and one night, he lets Lion out of his cage and takes him up in the balloon. A storm hits; Oscar loses control of the balloon, and Lion falls out and lands in Oz. As with Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, Lion meets an evil witch, as well as friends -- in the form of the caring and optimistic girl Wimsik and her talking toys -- who journey with him to find the powerful Flower of Oz, which holds the key to protecting Lion's friends, old and new.
Is It Any Good?
The animated film Lion of Oz follows the Wizard of Oz formula, and young Oz lovers will enjoy the magical characters and familiar elements. The movie's emphasis on friendship, courage, and believing in what's possible are nice and very positive, and the story is sure to please its intended audience. However, adults will find the character of Wimsik overly sweet, and the music is strictly B-list.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about courage. How does Lion show he is brave? Does he need his badge of courage?
Have you seen other Oz movies? Which is your favorite?
If you like the Oz movies, read the original series of books by L. Frank Baum.
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : September 26, 2000
- Cast : Dom DeLuise , Jason Priestley , Kathy Griffin , Tim Curry
- Director : Tim Deacon
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Sony Wonder
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Book Characters
- Run time : 74 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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