His Majesty, the Scarecrow of Oz, released in 1914, is an iconic silent movie based on the famous novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" by L. Frank Baum. Directed by L. Frank Baum himself, the film features enchanting characters from the novel and showcases the magical world of Oz in a visually pleasing manner. The story begins when Princess Gloria, who has been kidnapped by the evil King Krewl, is rescued by a group of adventurers - Ojo, a munchkin boy, the living patchwork quilt named Unc Nunkie, and the newly stuffed Scarecrow. They set out to return the Princess to her rightful place but face a series of obstacles and dangerous tasks on their journey.
Additionally, in the land of Oz, the Scarecrow is declared as the King as his appearance inclines with a prediction by a fortune-telling wizard. After his coronation, the Scarecrow becomes the most powerful man in Oz, and his newfound authority drives a wedge between him and his friends.
The movie gives a broader canvas to illustrate the world of Oz's unique characteristics, from colorful mythical creatures to bizarre landscapes, such as the deadly desert and whirlpool. The Scarecrow's struggle with his identity as he discovers himself and gains a sense of responsibility for the kingdom is the central theme of the plot.
Violet MacMillan plays the role of Princess Gloria and her performance is commendable. She portrays her character's emotions convincingly as she switches from being helpless to being strong enough to fight off many threats to her life. Frank Moore as Ojo adds a layer of innocence and adventure to the story, making it more fascinating for the audience. Pierre Couderc delivers an impressive Scarecrow performance, taking the character beyond the comic relief he was in the novel.
The visual effects of this movie are impressive despite the limited technology in that era. The dreamlike sequences, such as the Scarecrow's coronation and the magic of the wizard's crystal ball, are well-executed and visually stimulating. Additionally, the make-up and wardrobe are noteworthy, with colorful costumes and props that fit the novel's theme perfectly.
The film's score is an added advantage, bringing the movie to life with its vibrant and emotionally connective tunes. The use of music is particularly appealing when there is little or no dialogue.
Overall, His Majesty, the Scarecrow of Oz delivers a mesmerizing story while showcasing the incredible magical world of Oz. It leaves a lasting impression on the audience with its enchanting visuals, significant characters, and exhilarating performances. The movie deserves recognition for its contribution to the genre and as an essential part of the cinematic history of the time.
His Majesty, the Scarecrow of Oz is a 1914 comedy with a runtime of 55 minutes.
It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4.
