Legends of Oz: Dorothy's Return

Legends of Oz: Dorothy's Return is a vibrant, animated musical feature story that builds on the celebrated stories crafted by L. Frank Baum in his original Oz series. This 3D-Astoundingly animated film, released in 2013, is an exhilarating sequel to the legendary Wizard of Oz story. It notably features popular personalities like Lea Michele, Kelsey Grammer, and Dan Aykroyd who lend their voices and bring life to the beloved characters.

Based on Roger Stanton Baum's Dorothy of Oz, the story follows the adventures of Dorothy Gale, who is voiced by Lea Michele, best known for her remarkable role in Glee. The narrative kicks off post the devastating tornado that demolished her home in Kansas. As she begins working on its restoration, she's whisked off back to Oz by a magical rainbow.

Once back in Oz, she discovers the once-thriving world now lies deteriorated and desolate with a shadow of its former self. Her old friends, the Scarecrow, voiced by Dan Aykroyd of Ghostbusters fame, The Tin Man, enacted by Kelsey Grammer of Frasier, and the Cowardly Lion, voiced by Jim Belushi, have been captured and are under the cruel control of a devious new villain.

The wicked Jester, charmingly malicious who was once the brother of the infamous Wicked Witch of the West, poses a formidable danger, controlling everyone in the palace. Using the broomstick of his sister and his puppet strings, he has taken over Oz and turned its inhabitants into marionettes, implementing a fearful reign of terror.

However, reentering Oz's magical landscape is not easy for Dorothy as she has to meet new companions joining in her mission to liberate her friends and save Oz. The valiant group of new friends includes Wiser, an oversized yet amiable owl, Marshal Mallow, the diligent soldier, China Princess, the petite, fragile, and spoilt royal, and Tugg, a tugboat of old tree bark and rope reincarnated into an earnestly loyal companion.

Each character brings their flavor to the journey, building the excitement of the mission, from the simply pleasant land of Candy County and the porcelain town of Dainty China Country to the elegant court of Queen Mouse, to rescue Oz.

The performances of the actors voicing these characters are exceptional, with Lea Michele doing justice to her role as the brave, young girl. Kelsey Grammer demonstrates his versatility yet again voicing Tin Man, and Dan Aykroyd's talent for humor and earnestness is evident in his role as Scarecrow.

The stunning reimagining of the land of Oz creates a visually delightful experience for viewers, modern yet nostalgically reminiscent of the classic original. Though it’s meant for younger audiences, adults too can enjoy the movie and remember their old days with the classic Wizard Of Oz.

The film has also a number of melodic, catchy tunes with lyrics empowering and encouraging the essence of bravery, kindness, and friendship. The song 'Let's Work' motivates individual ability and joint effort, while 'Even Then' tugs at heartstrings that emphasize the depth of real friendship.

Despite the daunting mission she must undertake, Dorothy remains unfazed and determined. She once again inhabits the role of the heroine with grace and courage, all while learning important life lessons and the importance of friendship and bravery.

Directed by Will Finn and Dan St. Pierre, Legends of Oz: Dorothy's Return is a heartwarming tale of friendship, bravery, and the classic struggle of good versus evil. It beautifully combines the adventures of the new journey while giving tribute to the classic tale that immediately follows the original 1939’s The Wizard of Oz.

In conclusion, Legends of Oz: Dorothy's Return is definitely a must-watch for fans of Baum's original series, the Wizard of Oz enthusiasts, or anyone who simply loves a good, heartwarming, animated feature. It's an exciting journey through a rejuvenated Oz that is bound to captivate audiences of all ages with its vibrancy and adventurous spirit.