I don't think it holds a candle to the timeless classic that is the 1939 film with Judy Garland, however it deserves to stand on its own and that's how I'm going to judge it now. I have to say I really like this animated version, and I have to say if there is anything that is superior over the 1939 film it is that it is closer to the book, there are a few changes but in spirit this version is very faithful. And the story itself is just charming, never dull and will appeal to children and adults I think. The animation may have some stiff character movements but the backgrounds and colours are very pretty. The score is great, the mix of light jazz and contemporary music is interesting and beautifully composed while never jarring, and the songs are very sweet without falling into the trap of being saccharine. The dialogue has its choppy moments and the lip-synching is sloppy but there are still some heartwarming and funny moments too. The characters live long in the memory, Dorothy is a very endearing protagonist, Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion are amusing in their own right and the Wicked Witch of the West is appropriately sinister while not being overly so. The voice acting is generally very good, and the dub for an 80s dub is actually not bad at all.
Sure, Thick Wilson doesn't come across as cowardly enough and Lorne Greene is far too detached. However, Billy Van is a very charming Scarecrow while Elizabeth Hanna is dead-on, right from the cackling of the Witched Witch, whose role is small but still significant(Hanna really sounds like she's relishing every moment), to the benevolence of the Good Witch of the North. John Stocker appeals also as the Tin Man, almost melancholic and caring when he needs to be. But the best of the voice cast is easily Aileen Quinn- I happen actually to be a fan of Annie and her performance in it. She is simply adorable and puts a lot of spirit into a role that could be potentially vapid, and her singing voice is really extraordinary and very powerful. From experience with teaching primary school children singing for half-a-year to get some experience for studying singing at Birmingham, I will say that few people her age sing the way Quinn does, not everybody will like her voice but I find it unique and beautiful.
Overall, a very well-done, entertaining and charming film, not the best version but fans of the book will be satisfied I think. 7.5/10 Bethany Cox
