Lubricate the mind down the yellow brick road with the heart, brains and courage of friendship. Stay heavy on the gratitude department with The Wiz this week.
It’s another episode of KT & Friends, where we Pop Out with Jordan & Cameron (White People Won’t Save You) to review the 1978 film, The Wiz. Check out the podcast feed for A-side: The Pop Out (chat about the rap beef).
Line reference…
eurt si em tuoba yas yeht gnihtyrevE
– Euphoria (Kendrick Lamar)
The full line from the movie, spoken by Richard Pryor as The Wizard, is:
Everything they say about me is true, I’m a phony…
The Wizard
—
Summary
Welcome to the B-side of KT and Friends, where we review films referenced in the Kendrick Lamar and Drake beef. This week, we team up with Jordan and Cameron from the White People Won’t Save You podcast to dive deep into the 1978 classic, The Wiz.
A Warm Welcome and Initial Insights
KT kicks things off with an enthusiastic welcome to Jordan and Cameron, recognizing the engaged audience likely tuning in. The discussion immediately dives into the vibrant and thematic nature of The Wiz, directed by Sidney Lumet and released in October 1978. This film, stacked with an all-star cast including Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, and Richard Pryor, serves as a creative reimagining of The Wizard of Oz.
Non-Spoiler Impressions
KT neatly segues into non-spoiler impressions of the film. There’s palpable excitement and humble apologies for this being a first-time watch for some. The emotion of the film, coupled with memorable set pieces and performances, is emphasized as The Wiz repositions itself as a classic in its own right.
Personal Reflections and Family Ties
Cameron shares an intimate family connection to The Wiz, recounting how this and The Color Purple have become sacrosanct films in his household. These films resonate deeply, becoming part of a familial tradition, with entire families able to quote them line for line from memory. This personal touch adds a unique perspective and sets the stage for a heartfelt discussion on the movie’s themes and impact.
Thematic Parallels and Cultural Commentary
KT and Cameron skillfully bring out the parallels between The Wiz and the Kendrick Lamar and Drake beef. They dissect the line, “Everything they say about me is true. I’m a phony,” from Richard Pryor’s character and reflect on how it mirrors the vulnerability and unmasking in the rap battle. The conversation delves deep into the metaphorical and literal journeys of self-discovery and authenticity portrayed in the film and mirrored in modern cultural narratives.
Exploring the Characters and Their Impact
A significant portion of the podcast focuses on the characters of The Wiz and their unique journeys. KT, Jordan, and Cameron discuss their favorite songs, characters, and scenes, revealing how each element contributes to the film’s lasting impact. Scarecrow’s search for a brain, Tin Man’s quest for a heart, and Lion’s pursuit of courage are thoroughly explored, drawing powerful connections to personal growth and societal expectations.
The Joy of Black Cinema and the Call for a Remake
The conversation naturally evolves into a broader discussion on Black joy in cinema. Cameron passionately underscores the importance of films like The Wiz in celebrating Black culture and traditions. They also tackle the controversial idea of a potential remake, proposing modern casting choices and creative updates while acknowledging the challenge of meeting the original’s high standards.
Afrofuturism and the Spanning Influence of The Wiz
Jordan brings in Afrofuturistic elements, suggesting that a Wiz remake could embrace more inclusive and modern narratives. They discuss potential directors like Terrence Nance and Barry Jenkins and touch on how updated themes could resonate with today’s audiences. This imaginative discourse highlights the timeless relevance of The Wiz and its potential to inspire future generations.
A Joyful Conclusion
Wrapping up, KT reflects on the importance of these conversations, celebrating the unique perspectives and cultural significance that films like The Wiz bring to the table. The discussion closes on a note of unity and joy, embodying the communal spirit that the film itself champions.
For Your Reference: Film Recommendations
Each podcast member offers recommendations for films that would pair well with The Wiz:
- Cameron: “Moonwalker” – Michael Jackson’s surreal and fantastical movie combining music videos and a unique narrative.
- Jordan: “Space is the Place” – A wild seventies film featuring Sun Ra blending jazz, Afrofuturism, and a psychedelic narrative.
- KT: “Howl’s Moving Castle” – A Miyazaki classic with parallels to The Wizard of Oz and rich in magical, otherworldly themes.
Final Thoughts
This episode of KT and Friends with guests from the “White People Won’t Save You” podcast is a revelatory journey through the magic of The Wiz. It’s a celebration of Black culture, cinematic history, and the timeless power of storytelling. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time viewer, The Wiz offers something magical for everyone.
Stay tuned for more engaging episodes and deep dives into the films that shape our lives and culture.