'Oz: The Great and Powerful' Review Roundup: Mixed Reviews for New Oz Film

On March 8th, Sam Raimi's "Oz: The Great and Powerful" will open nationwide.

The film, starring James Franco, Rachel Weisz, Michelle Williams and Mila Kunis, tells the story of a small-time magician, Oz, who arrives in an enchanted land and is forced to decide if he will be a good man or a great one. The film is a prequel to the classic "The Wizard of the Oz."

The film received mixed reviews after its World Premiere in Los Angeles. Emmanuel Levy stated that "Though not fully satisfying as prequel to the 1939 classic, Raimi's film is vivid, colorful and more enjoyable than Jack Giant Slayer, Mirror Mirror and other recent retooling of fables."

Urban Cinefile also enjoyed the film stating, "The land of Oz is as fantastical, magical, colourful and enchantingly beautiful as CGI can make it."

Todd McCarthy of the Hollywood Reporter was not enthusiastic, stating, "Quite the opposite of the great earlier film, the Oz here is a dull place to be. Given the choice, you might even consider going back to Kansas."

A Screen International stated "Director Sam Raimi tries to mix dark and light tones while bolstering the action and effects, but the resulting film is a glossy jumble that is rarely magical." 

Raimi last directed the critically acclaimed "Drag me to Hell" in 2009. He is currently attached to direct "Poltergeist." 

James Franco recently made headlines for his new film "Interior.Leather Bar" due to its sex scenes. The actor will next be seen in "Spring Breakers" with Vanessa Hudgens and Selena Gomez as well as "The Iceman" with Michael Shannon. He will then star as Hugh Hefner in "Lovelace" and "This is the End" with Seth Rogen.

Kunis was last seen in "Ted" with Mark Wahlberg. She next appears in "Blood Ties" with Marion Cotillard. Weisz was last nominated for a Golden Globe for her turn in the Terrence Hattigan's film "The Deep Blue Sea."

Williams was last nominated for the Academy Award for her turn in "My Week with Marilyn." She then starred in "Take this Waltz" and is now in production for "Suite Francaise."

Disney will distribute the film in 3,700 theaters.