Film · 1978
The Wiz
The Scarecrow
Synopsis
A Black retelling of The Wizard of Oz, moved from a Kansas farm to the streets of New York City. Diana Ross plays Dorothy, a shy Harlem schoolteacher swept into a fantastical urban Oz. On her way to find the Wiz, she meets a stumbling, self-doubting Scarecrow played by Michael Jackson, along with a rusted Tin Man and a timid Lion. Together they travel through a dreamlike version of the city, from a graffiti-covered subway to a glittering Emerald City, dodging the witch Evillene and searching for courage, brains, heart, and a way home. Adapted from the hit Broadway musical, the film blends soul music, disco, and big studio spectacle into a coming-of-age fable about believing in yourself.
Michael's Role
The Scarecrow
Production
The film adapted the Tony-winning 1975 Broadway musical, with Sidney Lumet directing on soundstages and locations around New York, including the World Trade Center plaza. It was a large, expensive studio production, elaborate in its sets, makeup, and choreography.
The Music
Quincy Jones served as music supervisor and arranger, adapting Charlie Smalls's stage score. The collaboration proved pivotal: Jackson met Jones on this production, a relationship that soon led to Off the Wall and the defining albums that followed.
Reception
Reviews were mixed to negative on release, and the film underperformed at the box office. Over time it gained a warmer following as a cultural landmark and for its music and design.
Behind the Scenes
The Scarecrow role gave the young Jackson his first major screen acting experience and hours in heavy makeup. The friendship he formed with Quincy Jones during filming reshaped his career.
Interesting Facts
Michael Jackson met Quincy Jones during this production, sparking one of pop music's most important partnerships.
The film was directed by Sidney Lumet, better known for hard-edged dramas like Serpico and Network.
Diana Ross starred as Dorothy, reuniting on screen with Jackson, whom she had championed early in his career.
It adapted the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical of the same name.
The film underperformed commercially but later became a cult favorite.[reported]
The Wiz — Frequently Asked Questions
What role did Michael Jackson play in The Wiz?
Michael Jackson played the Scarecrow in The Wiz, a musical reimagining of The Wizard of Oz. It was his first major acting role in a feature film.
Who directed The Wiz?
The Wiz was directed by Sidney Lumet. The 1978 film adapted the hit Broadway musical for the screen.
When was The Wiz released?
The Wiz was released in 1978.
Who else starred in The Wiz with Michael Jackson?
The Wiz starred Diana Ross as Dorothy alongside Michael Jackson as the Scarecrow. The film was an all-Black retelling of The Wizard of Oz.
Is The Wiz on streaming?
Availability of The Wiz varies by region and streaming platform. Check current listings on major services or digital rental stores for the most accurate options in your area.