Est. 1998
The Wiz Returns To The Big Screen
Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of its Broadway debut, Universal Pictures is bringing the 1978 musical film “The Wiz” back to U.S. theaters for a special one-day event on Sunday, May 18, 2025.
Directed by Sidney Lumet, “The Wiz” is a vibrant reimagining of L. Frank Baum’s classic tale, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” set against the backdrop of 1970s New York City. The film stars Michael Jackson as the Scarecrow, and Diana Ross as the lead role of Dorothy, a Harlem schoolteacher who finds herself in the fantastical land of Oz. As well as Michael’s version of the Scarecrow, along her journey Dorothy is also joined by the Tin Man, portrayed by Nipsey Russell, and the Cowardly Lion, performed by Ted Ross. Together they seek out the mysterious Wiz (Richard Pryor) to help Dorothy return home.
Originally released in 1978, “The Wiz” has since become a cult classic, noted for its all-Black cast, imaginative set designs, and memorable musical numbers, including the hit duet between Michael and Diana, “Ease on Down the Road.” The film is also notable as marking the beginning of Michael’s collaboration with music producer Quincy Jones, leading to the creation of Michael’s landmark solo albums “Off the Wall,” “Thriller,” and “Bad.”
The one-off even offers both longtime fans and new audiences an opportunity to experience “The Wiz” on the big screen, possibly for the first time. Tickets for the May 18 re-release are now available. Get yours here.
Universal Pictures also release a new poster for the event:
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