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This time it's Zooey Deschanel as DG (i.e. meaning the Outer Zone. wasn't very original. The first indication one gets that this tale will be different from what they're used to comes just by reading the title chosen for this mini-series.
About midway through you might find yourself losing interest, however If you make it to Part 3 the storyline accelerates and you'll find yourself infused with a shot of adrenaline with the introduction of several unanticipated plot maneuvers that will carry the now invigorated viewer to the end. On the negative side I'd have to mention the Evil Witches scheme to bring permanent darkness to the O.Z. The Scarecrow was no more, now replaced by Glitch (Cumming), a lobotomized human with a prominent zipper down the middle of his hairline, an ex-cop named Cain (McDough) nicknamed Tin Man because of the badge he used to carry and Raw (Truijillo), a member of a race of empathic, hairy, lion-like beings who possess the ability to read minds. Prepare yourself for surprising and unexpected twists and turns in an Oz that even Judy Garland wouldn't be able to recognize. The other drawback is the length of the production which is a common concern when it comes to mini-series. Dorothy Gale), the traveler, or "slipper" between worlds who finds herself in a perilous situation that makes the original 1939 film look like a carefree walk in the park.
The second major change is the clever way in which the word Oz is changed from the name of a place to an acronym of a place. . Toto is only the animal form of a shapeshifter known as Tutor when in human form. What really makes this storyline unique and entertaining is the massive use of creative license to adapt the original plot, landscape and characters into a new imaginative vision while still maintaining a credible link with the original cinematic classic. Even little, loveable Toto has returned, but not in a form you would have ever anticipated. It's not Oz anymore, it's the O.Z.
To be sure more surprises lay ahead for the intrepid viewer.
Kathleen Robertson was also a big plus as DG's older, allegedly evil sister Azkadellia, adding a much appreciated touch of sexuality to keep the adult, male audience occupied.
If you've seen `Kull the Conqueror' ('97) or `Hellboy ('07) you've seen it before.
Why would they omit Oz and Dorothy from the title and call it `Tin Man'.
Though this is a made-for-television mini-series the production values are stellar and the cast superior.
I don't think Zooey has ever let me down and her courageous companions; Alan Cumming, Neal McDonough and Raoul Truijillo add a lot of energy and personality to keep the audience focused on this somewhat overly lengthy production.
I was also pleased by the updated metamorphosis taken place within the ranks of DG's trio of fellow sojourners.
Yes there are lots of subtle alterations like this to keep the viewing audience on its toes.
Be prepared for a lot more changes than just the few mentioned here.
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