I prefer Stephanie's version. To me she is as much Dorothy as Judy Garland was Dorothy. Her version of Home is just as timeless and beautiful and ICONIC as Judy's Somewhere Over The Rainbow.
As far as Dorothy is concerned in “The Wiz,” Ms. Stephanie Mills totally owns this role. Mills having performed the entire run of The Wiz originally on Broadway and in the revival tours of 1983 and 1992 pretty much has her legacy cemented in stone as the original “black” Dorothy! Ross did a great job in the movie IMHO but Mills is ‘Dorothy’ forever and who knows if John Badham and co. we’re willing to feature Stephanie Mills in an independent small budget film version of The Wiz maybe the film would have had commercial success during its original run in cinemas. But I was present in NYC at the time and the movie theater on 44th in October 1978 was mostly empty while the musical now playing at the Broadway Theatre was still selling out. The movie is now a cult classic for obvious reason. Long live The Wiz!
Thank you so much for watching my video and sharing your experience! That’s so ironic, having mostly empty cinemas just a few blocks away from sold out performances of the musical…did you have a chance to see Stephanie Mills in any of her runs as Dorothy?? Thanks again for watching! I came across your channel while I was doing research for this video and it means so much that you took the time to watch my Wiz video 💚💚💚
@@TeacupForOne Yes! I saw Stephanie’Mills as Dorothy in the original Broadway run at the Majestic, in the revival in 84 at Lunt Fontanne and on Easter Sunday in 1993 in the revival at the Beacon Theater. Good times!
The Broadway stage production was initially a failure partially due to racism but then they came up with the unique idea of having advertisements and they were so popular that it became a huge hit it’s only in retrospect the people realize what a brilliant thing it was. I take your point on the benefits of Ross as Dorthy but I still feel like Ross did Mills dirty.
That’s so cool, I didn’t come across that in my research (again, mostly Wikipedia 😂) but it makes total sense- the commercials for the original production were amazing, that’s where I pulled most of the OBC footage from for this video- and I was surprised to see such quality footage for a show from the 70s. Advertising clearly works!
@@TeacupForOne those advertisements were crazy great weren’t they? I looked into the details because I was doing a video on how the last thermodynamics ended up in the wiz and it was so fun to talk about my second passion (musicals) with my first (physics). However, it turned into my least popular video so turns out there isn’t a whole lot of overlap for most people. Ah well.
Ross did nothing of the kind. No studio would make a film with Mills in the lead. Here's what she said about her interactions with Diana Ross: ruclips.net/video/6bBqGh5-rN8/видео.html
Trust me, she did. Berry Gordy wanted Stephanie to be cast, and of course..Ross asked him if she could be cast as Dorothy, he said no simply because Diana was too old for the role, she was 33 at the time. She went behind his back and went to executive producer Rob Cohen to arrange a deal to get her in the movie. John Badham, who was initially the original director of the film, when he found out Ross was on the project, he chose not to direct the film.. very telling if you ask me. He was replaced with Sidney Lumet. The script, screenplay, everything was changed to suit Diana's needs.
@@nostalgik._ Without Diana Ross, the film would never have been made, as no studio would cast Mills in the role. Mills stats that she has never had a problem with Ross' casting, as she (Mills) idolizes Ross, and she had her own YBR. Lumet, while a brilliant director and far more prestigious than Badham, was the wrong choice for the film, due to his darker POV and lack of musical film experience, but, it got Lena Horne, his MIL, into the film. All scripts are changed to suit casting and, in this case, it worked. Ross' portrayal and soundtrack, thanks to Quincy Jones' incredible production, is sterling and featured on television many times per year, and always with great rating for whatever network airs it, especially on Thanksgiving. Though an initial flop, the film's TV receipts over the past forty years more than make up for it.
There is no debate here... Stephanie Mills should have played Dorothy in the movie! Although the cast was amazing with Michael Jackson, Lena Horne and Nipsey Russell, I believe that Stephanie would have made this movie magic! Besides, Stephanie was dating Michael at the time ..that would have been something to see on screen 🤔
Dorthy is a 16-year-old girl. Diana Ross was miscast. Everyone at the time of the film's premiere shared this sentiment. Stephanie Mills should have been given this role.
Actually, in the book, Dorothy is somewhere between 8 and 11, so technically Stephanie Mills would have also been too old, but in the same way Judy Garland was.
Stephanie should've played Dorothy in the film version of The Wiz. Berry Gordy wanted her to play the role. It would have made her career (Broadway wise) come in full circle. But we know why that didn't take place.. 😏☕️
Right and I honestly think that’s why The Wiz bombed at the box office! It’s a cult classic today but when it was released it was a box office FAILURE! It never even made back the profit it took to make the movie
@@rowlaanbennett7296 I think that it was because an older woman played Dorothy; I am not taking anything away from Diana as I looooove her. I looooooove Stephanie even more however.
Unfortunately the Wiz was a Box Office Flop due to Berry Gordy's casting ideas, Diana could have played the mother and Stephanie play Dorothy and we would all be Happy
Woah I was in the 1st grade when this movie came out, living in Mississippi. I remember my mom was on the phone with her sister/my aunt who was living in NY at that time. Time flies & this movie as well as the soundtrack was great. I didn’t know that Sidney Lumet was Lena Horne’s son in law.
I grew up with a DVD of the Wiz so I’ve always been a fan of Diana Ross’s take on Dorothy, but as I’ve gotten older and become a theatre kid and discovered the stage version, I’ve noticed a few things. I totally agree that they were both perfect for each version of The Wiz. I would’ve liked to have seen a film version with Stephanie that more closely resembled the stage version, but I think you made a good point that it probably would’ve been largely overshadowed by the MGM film. What I love about the film version is how much it stands out from the other Oz adaptations, particularly Dorothy’s character and her arc over the film. I don’t think that would’ve been achieved as well with Stephanie in the movie. Ultimately, I think Stephanie was great for the Broadway production as she really helped The Wiz become this musical that we all love, and Diana (and the re-writes she brought along with her) really made the film become such an iconic movie in its own right.
There was clear dissent towards Ross in that role which I believe resulted in it flopping at Theaters. Stephanie earned her place next to Judy Garland through grassroots support. Diana took it through force, and till this day is still struggling with legitimacy of the role by the audience.
Coupla things: I actually worked at Motown Productions as a story editor during this time and the"producer at Universal" you mention Diana Ross went to was my boss at the time, Rob Cohen (who would later direct the first "Fast and Furious" with Vin Diesel 25 years later). But Rob was already part of Motown as head of the film division, not just some random producer. He sided with Diana against Berry Gordy's choice. Rob went with Diana Ross partially because by signing her, Universal with which Motown was already producing films, significantly increased his budget. Also, after John Badham left, the first choice of director was none other than Bob Fosse. But Fosse was recovering from his first heart attack and instructed not to take on such a challenging assignment. Lumet came on board just before production got underway. Ironically he was at the time the son-in-law of Lena Horne, who played the Good Witch. Sadly, after the failure of THE WIZ to turn a profit, the film division of Motown at Universal was dissolved.
After seeing the Broadway show with the cast of singers heard on the Original cast album I definitely thought Lena Horne was not right for that part, I never cared for her kind of singing, she was never R&B, so you have Diana and Horne miscasted, this seems to happen a lot when your adapting a play into a movie, they want to embellish it, Quincy Jones arrangements for the music didn't work, again the sound of the orchestra from the original cast play was beautiful
@@manuelcampuzano558 The original director that made THE WIZ a hit on Broadway, Joe Layton, was so dismayed by the changes that he disowned it and refused to have anything to do with the movie. I think he could smell disaster.
I preferred Stephanie Mills. Although you made a great argument about the adaptation of the Diana Ross role, it all got down to which character the audience cared about. We all could identify with a teenage girl being lost in a strange environment and wanting to get home; but who really cared about an adult woman--a school teacher, trying to find her place in the world. I was twenty-five and didn't need the help of a wizard to have a brain, heart, and courage to find what I wanted to do with my life.
Stephanie. Hands down. Nothing against Diana because she's a hell of a singer...BUT: Stephanie has the PIPES...she easily would hold her own opposite Michael.
Both were great in their respective mediums for this story. I really enjoy Diana's interpretation and believe it was ahead of its time. Stephanie did her thing on Broadway. I can enjoy both and glad both were done.
Motown was committed to using Stephanie Mills as Dorothy and Michael Jackson as the Scarecrow. When Michael told Diana about his excitement for the role she wanted in as Dorothy. Berry Gordy told her no and she went over his head to get the part. So everything you've said is correct brother.
That’s what I thought! I came across a few conflicting accounts about how Diana’s casting happened, but this seems to be the most consistent story. Like I said in the video, I’m generally happy with Diana in the film but I would have loved to have had Stephanie’s performance documented either in a film or professional recording of the stage production.
1978 when "The Wiz" came out, I was 4 years old. I remember my daycare center taking us to see it. That was a bad decision as far as I was concerned. I found it to be dark and creepy. And to be that age and actually live in New York City, they took it to another place. As you've stated the environment did look apocalyptic and I didn't know what to make of that. So throughout my childhood, i avoided this movie like the plague. I guess the management of the daycare thought that with people like Diana Ross and Michael Jackson it would be bright and upbeat. Guess again. To me all of the characters seemed strange and weren't connecting to the psyche of a child. Some years ago I purchased the film on DVD and decided to watch this as an adult. Immediately, I recognized why it had that impression on me. It was the cinematography, the characters and the atmosphere. As soon as Dorothy falls through the giant "Oz" sign, it's on. Between the munchkins coming out of the wall, the crows with sunglasses and ridiculously large beaks, the hideous flying monkeys, Evilene herself, that man in the subway with those things that grew to 7 feet tall. My goodness. A slew of oddities. There was another place to take this story and New York City in the late 70s was not it. Although, I did find Diana Ross as Dorothy and The Scarecrow, The Cowardly Lion and The Tin man refreshing as fast friends that displayed genuine love and support for one another. And, you're right, the line Dorothy delivers at the end speaks to being empowered and fearless. If they ever decide to remake this (which I'm sure they will) they have to go in a completely different direction aesthetically.
Stephanie should've gotten the role in the movie, they went off name value instead and pick Diana. The movie was a total flop. Stephanie's vocals most definitely out shines Diana's.
Dorothy... Dorothy... Dorothy!! Stephanie Mills was is the better Dorothy in the Broadway show! Diana Ross was way too old to play Dorothy in the movie. Evil lean was the best part of the movie and the sub way scene. Just my opinion as an oz fan. I love Diana Ross in the supremes.
Even though I love Diana ross and i think that she did a wonderful job in the wiz,,I believe that Stephanie Mills fit the role better,,due to her age matching the age of dorothy,,in which would have made the movie seem more real if the age of dorothy matched the age of the actress....Also,,seems as if Stephanie was destined to play the role and should have been awarded the role in my opinion,,due to her amazing 7 years of playing Dorothy on Broadway,,where she mesmerized all those who saw the play......in fact,,Stephanie's amazing singing voice,,her short little girl stature,,her cute face,,her sweet voice,,and her sweet personality,, would have definitely made the movie more sensational...Also,,due to Diana Ross already being a huge star before the wiz was made,,I think it would have only been right to give Stephanie a chance to become a big star as well by giving her the role......in fact,,not just give her the role to help a young black talented woman get her big well deserved break in acting,,but give her the role due to her amazing 7 year run of playing Dorothy in the legendary Broadway play The Wiz,,in which she started playing at 15 years old.....I Truly believe that it was destiny for Stephanie Mills to play the role of Dorothy for the Movie,,and obviously despite destiny screaming very very very loud saying that Stephanie should recieve the movie role,,the loud scream of destiny was ignored for whatever reason...😔.....however,,I do understand the buisness frame of mind of the makers of the movie,,because they most likely thought that casting a well known popular Diana Ross,,would increase the sales of the movie..however,,if that was there reasoning for ignoring destiny it did not work,,because if im not mistaken the movie still flopped,,despite Diana Ross being in the film...like I said before,,I love Diana Ross very very very much,,and she did a spectacular job in the wiz,,one of my favorite movies ever...Also,,I love Stephanie Mills very very very much as well,,and I'm sure she also would have done a spectacular job if she would have gotten the movie role that was destined for her from above...😪🙏🏾
STEPHANIE MILLS MOST DEFINITELY PREFER THE ORIGINAL CAST ESPECIALLY (STEPHANIE MILLS) AS (DOROTHY) STEPHANIE MILLS WAS AND STILL IS THE GREATEST PERFORMER AND SINGER SHE(STEPHANIE) (MILLS) NAILED THE ROLE AS (DOROTHY) HER VOICE. THE SOUND OF HER VOICE., IS (FLAWLESS) (UNIQUELY)(WELL) (PRESERVED) TO THIS VERY DAY HANDS DOWN STEPHANIE MILLS ❤️ 💙 👏! YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL AND I THANK YOU FOR PUTTING YOUR HEART AND SOUL INTO THE WIZ!!!! YOU MADE ❤️ THE WIZ INTO A (MASTERPIECE)!!!! ALSO THE (DEDICATION) YOU'RE DOING TODAY 👏 FOR THE (BLM) ETC.... YOUR HEART POURS INTO ALL YOU DO IS AN (INSPIRATION) APPRECIATE YOU AND GODBLESS!!!!.
Also. Michael Jackson was cast because of Diana Ross. He was not even considered until Diana Ross wanted him. The original actor was going to be Jimmy Walker from Good Times.
And he did good. Berry and the Jackson’s was going through their trouble at the time so that’s why berry didn’t want Michael on that role but he did good to be his first time. Jimmy is great too but I don’t think he could dance or sing like Michael could.
Staphanie Mills IS Dorothy!!!! As a sixth grader during the 70's the broadway musical inspired my love for the performing arts. Stephanie should have played Dorothy in the movie. Stephanie's vocals are impeccable. Diana was too old for the role. Diana was great but Stephanie was the greatest!!!
I saw The Wiz on Broadway with Stephanie Mills and the last song of “Home” has remained in my memory my whole life. That said, I just watched the film and I was unimpressed with Ross until she sang the very last song! Wow.
The Wiz is my favorite film of all time! I saw it in the movies when I was a 7 year old little boy and I had always wished I had seen the Broadway version. Nevertheless, I enjoyed your commentary about the movie and play. Great job!
The Wiz is a black cult classic. Most families I know love it. Diana went behind Berry’s back to get that role. She should not have been in the film. I love Stephanie Mills but her acting is more suited to Broadway rather film. Maybe with help and training she could have adapted to film. Stephanie’s voice is amazing. She can make you feel in a way that it’s impossible to describe. She would have brought a since of youth to the role that young people would love. Maybe Irene Cara should have gotten the role of stephanie couldn’t do it. I love the film. It’s a cult classic
Like I said, I really do love how the film turned out (I know I’m basically alone there 😅) HOWEVER I would have LOVED to see what ‘The Wiz’ movie could have been like with Stephanie….I’ve found some videos of her performance onstage and it would have been epic to capture on film.
Stephanie Mills all the way! What a loss that she didn't get to do the movie! What a treasure that would have been. Diana Ross was just too weepy and depressing, I'm sorry to say. It really brought the energy of the movie down. The savings grace of the movie was the supporting cast: Nipsey Russell, Ted Ross and (especially) Michael Jackson. Like Ted Ross, it was also great to have Mabel King back for the film, too.
This was a great analysis. I think your points were spot on. The changes to Dorothy and the setting made the Wiz unique and distinctive from the Garland version. It’s a classic amongst black Americans.
All I can say I remember going to the movie to watch it. Every time Diana Ross thing I went to sleep. My opinion Lena Horne was it. Her part was the one.
No question about it. Stephanie Mills!!!!! Saw The Wiz three times on Broadway and it's still the most thrilling theatrical experience of my life. Nothing has ever compared to the original Broadway production before or since. The film was a horrid iteration with terrible creative choices. Miss Ross was simply miscast.
Brilliant analysis. Stephanie Mills will always own that role, no matter how much you adapt it, but I am not sure if she had been selected to play the part in the movie, the story would have worked. Diana Ross is a Superstar with two hit movies behind her, but her fan base had not only been composed of fanatics but critics as well. And although the movie was not a box office hit at first due to the critics it has grown over the years to be a very popular event, for audiences everywhere. Teachers in the minds of the public are viewed as nurturers of children not mentally unstable grown ups so perhaps had Ross role been that of a confused Teachers Aid, the part would have worked from the start. Remakes can work if done properly. After all I will always prefer Patti LaBelle’s version of “Over the Rainbow” to the Judy Garland original!
One element you miss in your assessment of the movie is the heavy influence of the EST personal development craze that swept America in the late 70s. Diana Ross was all in on the programme and the script explores many of the concepts of the programme. Despite the box office failure of the movie the greatest consequence of The Wiz was Quincy Jones as musical director coming into close contact with Michael Jackson who starred as the scarecrow. The pair struck up a friendship that became a working relationship that then led to a string of successful hit albums starting with Off The Wall and included Thriller. During the filming in NYC during 1978 MJ, Quincy and Diana spent a lot of time at STUDIO 54. This was a major influence for all 3. MJ&Q created Off The Wall which was full of dance tracks and boosted his star status as a solo adult performer. Diana collaborated on a successful album with Ashford & Simpson "The Boss" which also featured a suite of dance tracks- the entire album topped the Billboard Disco Album Chart in the late summer/early fall of 1979. All 3 quickly bounced back from the failure of the Wiz with two of the biggest albums of their careers.
Back in the day Diana Ross and Michael Jackson were magic together and that helped a lot more popularity and views for the movie. Now Stephanie Mills really had the voice! But I don't think she was as popular as Diana Ross at the time. I dont think it was as successful because it was competing with The Wizard of Oz with Judy Garland which was a huge success. This movie made my childhood ❤, think we all loved MJ singing and dancing. For a musical Stephanie Mills coukdnt be beat but on screen with the dancers and actors from Motown like Michael Jackson and iconic stars like Lena Horn, plus Diana Ross doesnt look her age and small body frame, she could very well get away with it and did ❤. Doesn't take away from Stephanie Mills, she is legend too with that big voice!
I don't think Stephanie even got nominated for a Tony award even though the Wiz won Best Musical. I love the Broadway Cast album (!) still. Stephanie still sounds great (June 2023).
Teacup for one, read the book how the wiz was, Universal produced the Broadway show and owned the film rights to the musical from the start of getting the funds to do the Broadway show.
I love your subjective views of the movie adaption of The Wiz! You make very valid points! However, I still hate it as a movie! Stephanie Mills version of Dorothy Is embedded in my soul! Sometimes I feel like Stephanie dodged a bullet because had she been in the movie it still might have been corny because of the production surrounding her character! The only thing that would have made the movie exciting is her incredible voice and perhaps acting! I love Diana Ross as an artist but playing an older version of Dorothy was the worst mistakes she could have made in her career.
Thank you for watching, and sharing your thoughts!!! I love reading everyone’s perspective on this discussion, it’s a real testament to how much “The Wiz” means to people whether it’s the movie, soundtrack, original Broadway production etc…one way or another, it’s a true classic!
@@TeacupForOne And thank YOU sir for providing your commentary on this classic! It really breathes new life and interest to the conversation of the movie and the Broadway production of The Wiz!👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾❤❤❤
The one thing I would’ve done slightly different is instead of her coming from New York, I would've brought her back to somewhere in Kansas. Not so much a desolate farmland, but just a predominately African American small town kind of thing. It would've made the Thanksgiving opening and song work better being large family holiday gatherings is more correlated with closely-knit small town families. It also would've made this version of the land of Oz stand out so much more in contrast to the small town she would be coming from. Kind of like from the small town to the big city kind of thing.
As much as I love me some Diana R., she should have passed & let Stepanie M., go ahead and knock it out! She sure would have no dobut! I'm okay with the outcome because for me? Diana R., could have played a cleaning lady to a madam who sings I'd have loved it! So I'm good either/or!
I love the movie...i just mention it to a friend of mine and immediately she went at Diana for having that roll....I never saw it live so I didnt Know....She was all Stephanie
This is a very good review. You make many valid points and your easy on the eyes too. Even though The Wiz seems misguided in comparison to the stage show...I think the movie is visually stunning and iconic. I love that the land of Oz is 70's NYC.
The problem with the movie was not just Diana being too old I think the movie is dated. Also feels like a horror movie. Now that you mention the city feel I love that idea I just wish they made it clean and beautiful. The message of it just felt really racist to me. That black people can't escape the ghetto. I wish they made the city look less apocalyptic and more paradise.
Diana Ross was very skinny and looked like a younger girl, she was already an established movie star and singer with Motown Berry Gorden on her side. She brought a lot of passion and flavor to the movie, love her and Michael Jackson worked together well❤, love how she kept her hair in a afro bec during that time it was catering to the black race since The Wizard of Oz was all white cast I believe and huge success. Now Stephanie Mills also would've been perfect and yes I think Stephanie M was robbed on this because she was a natural talent better Broadway voice. But Stephanie Mills was built more like a women, they put alot make up and hair on her that kinda took away from the natural beauty and younger girl so I think they made right choice with Diana Ross. Im glad Stephanie Mills went on to be a great singer❤🎉
I have absolutely no problem with the film because I am not a purist. I like the way they adapted the film as you say. I think Stephanie Mills has a purity and loveliness in her performance and Diana Ross brings a more seasoned voice. I can't really pick a favorite becsuse they offer different things in two different productions. - Loren
Ms Mills is forever Dorthy after ms Judy Garland but I won't discount ms Ross and her powerful dedication to a fun packed elaborate production with the amazing cast... ms Ross wasn't a slouch in the role... Why even compare because I love listening to ms Ross version as well
I'm normally a fan of Diana Ross, but, even if you don't see it, the failure of "THE WIZ" as a film in 1978, has EVERYTHING to do with Diana Ross' EGO! EGO EGO! and the changes that were made to the film to accommodate her EGO!!! Diana Ross as Dorothy is every bit as terrible as Lucy Ball grabbing "MAME" for herself in 1974--another "Vanity Star" Turn that I won't go into here! You said it, "The Wiz" movie is definitely divisive, and I hate it! A movie for trash bins. Sadly, "THE WIZ" movie totally ruined the reputation of THE WIZ"-- the stage musical; which is fun and closer than one might think to Baum's Book. Diana Ross got what she deserved, though. Her "movie career" (ahem) disappeared. Too bad the movie division of Motown was closed down, though. Oh, there is one small thing I DO like about "THE WIZ" movie 1978-- and that is the dog who played Toto. That dog is adorable, but not reason enough to ever watch this trashed movie ever again.
The black community loves both Stephanie and Diana. And the whole cast of the Wiz nailed it. MGM cannot touch the creativity of the Wiz. All memorable performances down to the flying monkeys.
Diana Ross did an amazing job o the wiz. Stephanie mills didn’t own that role. I saw the movie first. For the first time I saw Stephanie’s performance . I think Stephanie was stage ready but not movie ready. Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. It worked
Dude.., Bro...Wow😮We have a lot in common/ similar interests. Where did you get that wicked cool witch t shirt? Also do you collect Oz? I'm close to your age, younger photo. Sup? 😘😉✌️
Both! Perfect review of on stage and movie. I was born In an Era where I was able to see it on Broadway live and Stephanie and cast was AMAZING! I do agree no one can do it like Stephanie vocally, but Diana did her thing as well! Both are a staple in my ❤️. I just watched The Wiz the other day and it felt Iike #HOME
I prefer Stephanie's version. To me she is as much Dorothy as Judy Garland was Dorothy. Her version of Home is just as timeless and beautiful and ICONIC as Judy's Somewhere Over The Rainbow.
Stephanie Mills owns that role and can blow Diana Ross out the way easily.
Miss Stephanie Mills of course! Hands down. PERIOD!! Enough said.
👌🏽❗️❗️❗️
As far as Dorothy is concerned in “The Wiz,” Ms. Stephanie Mills totally owns this role. Mills having performed the entire run of The Wiz originally on Broadway and in the revival tours of 1983 and 1992 pretty much has her legacy cemented in stone as the original “black” Dorothy! Ross did a great job in the movie IMHO but Mills is ‘Dorothy’ forever and who knows if John Badham and co. we’re willing to feature Stephanie Mills in an independent small budget film version of The Wiz maybe the film would have had commercial success during its original run in cinemas. But I was present in NYC at the time and the movie theater on 44th in October 1978 was mostly empty while the musical now playing at the Broadway Theatre was still selling out. The movie is now a cult classic for obvious reason. Long live The Wiz!
Thank you so much for watching my video and sharing your experience! That’s so ironic, having mostly empty cinemas just a few blocks away from sold out performances of the musical…did you have a chance to see Stephanie Mills in any of her runs as Dorothy??
Thanks again for watching! I came across your channel while I was doing research for this video and it means so much that you took the time to watch my Wiz video 💚💚💚
@@TeacupForOne Yes! I saw Stephanie’Mills as Dorothy in the original Broadway run at the Majestic, in the revival in 84 at Lunt Fontanne and on Easter Sunday in 1993 in the revival at the Beacon Theater. Good times!
The 2015 version is better
The REAL question is. Who paid the money to produce it? I THINK that both are talented, but I didn't sign on the bottom line. Neither did you.
Honestly they could've let Diana play Glinda The Good Witch and i wouldn't be mad that would actually be a more perfect casting
The Broadway stage production was initially a failure partially due to racism but then they came up with the unique idea of having advertisements and they were so popular that it became a huge hit it’s only in retrospect the people realize what a brilliant thing it was. I take your point on the benefits of Ross as Dorthy but I still feel like Ross did Mills dirty.
That’s so cool, I didn’t come across that in my research (again, mostly Wikipedia 😂) but it makes total sense- the commercials for the original production were amazing, that’s where I pulled most of the OBC footage from for this video- and I was surprised to see such quality footage for a show from the 70s. Advertising clearly works!
@@TeacupForOne those advertisements were crazy great weren’t they? I looked into the details because I was doing a video on how the last thermodynamics ended up in the wiz and it was so fun to talk about my second passion (musicals) with my first (physics). However, it turned into my least popular video so turns out there isn’t a whole lot of overlap for most people. Ah well.
Ross did nothing of the kind.
No studio would make a film with Mills in the lead.
Here's what she said about her interactions with Diana Ross: ruclips.net/video/6bBqGh5-rN8/видео.html
Trust me, she did. Berry Gordy wanted Stephanie to be cast, and of course..Ross asked him if she could be cast as Dorothy, he said no simply because Diana was too old for the role, she was 33 at the time. She went behind his back and went to executive producer Rob Cohen to arrange a deal to get her in the movie. John Badham, who was initially the original director of the film, when he found out Ross was on the project, he chose not to direct the film.. very telling if you ask me. He was replaced with Sidney Lumet. The script, screenplay, everything was changed to suit Diana's needs.
@@nostalgik._
Without Diana Ross, the film would never have been made, as no studio would cast Mills in the role. Mills stats that she has never had a problem with Ross' casting, as she (Mills) idolizes Ross, and she had her own YBR.
Lumet, while a brilliant director and far more prestigious than Badham, was the wrong choice for the film, due to his darker POV and lack of musical film experience, but, it got Lena Horne, his MIL, into the film.
All scripts are changed to suit casting and, in this case, it worked. Ross' portrayal and soundtrack, thanks to Quincy Jones' incredible production, is sterling and featured on television many times per year, and always with great rating for whatever network airs it, especially on Thanksgiving.
Though an initial flop, the film's TV receipts over the past forty years more than make up for it.
Stephanie Mills was a better Dorothy and she absolutely nailed the song Home.
I did enjoy both versions. The problem I had with the movie was Diana Ross's voice.
I preferred Stephanie Mills and she should have been in the movie.
There is no debate here... Stephanie Mills should have played Dorothy in the movie! Although the cast was amazing with Michael Jackson, Lena Horne and Nipsey Russell, I believe that Stephanie would have made this movie magic! Besides, Stephanie was dating Michael at the time ..that would have been something to see on screen 🤔
Stephanie Mills is the G.O.A.T in my opinion ❤ ❤
This was Stephanie Mills' role!
Dorthy is a 16-year-old girl. Diana Ross was miscast. Everyone at the time of the film's premiere shared this sentiment. Stephanie Mills should have been given this role.
Diana should have been cast as Aunt Em
@@lashawnlewis2207 Agreed. They had to rewrite the part as she was an adult who never left home.
Actually, in the book, Dorothy is somewhere between 8 and 11, so technically Stephanie Mills would have also been too old, but in the same way Judy Garland was.
Stephanie Mills. Period.
PERIOD!!!!!
Stephanie should've played Dorothy in the film version of The Wiz. Berry Gordy wanted her to play the role. It would have made her career (Broadway wise) come in full circle. But we know why that didn't take place.. 😏☕️
Gordy was WHIPPED.
Diana has always been a hater
Of course. Stephanie should have played that part.
Right and I honestly think that’s why The Wiz bombed at the box office! It’s a cult classic today but when it was released it was a box office FAILURE! It never even made back the profit it took to make the movie
@@rowlaanbennett7296 I think that it was because an older woman played Dorothy; I am not taking anything away from Diana as I looooove her. I looooooove Stephanie even more however.
Unfortunately the Wiz was a Box Office Flop due to Berry Gordy's casting ideas, Diana could have played the mother and Stephanie play Dorothy and we would all be Happy
Ooooooh THAT would have been awesome!
If Stephanie would of played the part it would of made more sense and would of been a block busting movie.. The movie would of been more believable:)
I still Love the Soundtrack. The music 🎵 still rocks🎭
Woah I was in the 1st grade when this movie came out, living in Mississippi. I remember my mom was on the phone with her sister/my aunt who was living in NY at that time. Time flies & this movie as well as the soundtrack was great.
I didn’t know that Sidney Lumet was Lena Horne’s son in law.
I grew up with a DVD of the Wiz so I’ve always been a fan of Diana Ross’s take on Dorothy, but as I’ve gotten older and become a theatre kid and discovered the stage version, I’ve noticed a few things.
I totally agree that they were both perfect for each version of The Wiz. I would’ve liked to have seen a film version with Stephanie that more closely resembled the stage version, but I think you made a good point that it probably would’ve been largely overshadowed by the MGM film.
What I love about the film version is how much it stands out from the other Oz adaptations, particularly Dorothy’s character and her arc over the film. I don’t think that would’ve been achieved as well with Stephanie in the movie.
Ultimately, I think Stephanie was great for the Broadway production as she really helped The Wiz become this musical that we all love, and Diana (and the re-writes she brought along with her) really made the film become such an iconic movie in its own right.
There was clear dissent towards Ross in that role which I believe resulted in it flopping at Theaters. Stephanie earned her place next to Judy Garland through grassroots support. Diana took it through force, and till this day is still struggling with legitimacy of the role by the audience.
Coupla things: I actually worked at Motown Productions as a story editor during this time and the"producer at Universal" you mention Diana Ross went to was my boss at the time, Rob Cohen (who would later direct the first "Fast and Furious" with Vin Diesel 25 years later). But Rob was already part of Motown as head of the film division, not just some random producer. He sided with Diana against Berry Gordy's choice. Rob went with Diana Ross partially because by signing her, Universal with which Motown was already producing films, significantly increased his budget. Also, after John Badham left, the first choice of director was none other than Bob Fosse. But Fosse was recovering from his first heart attack and instructed not to take on such a challenging assignment. Lumet came on board just before production got underway. Ironically he was at the time the son-in-law of Lena Horne, who played the Good Witch. Sadly, after the failure of THE WIZ to turn a profit, the film division of Motown at Universal was dissolved.
After seeing the Broadway show with the cast of singers heard on the Original cast album I definitely thought Lena Horne was not right for that part, I never cared for her kind of singing, she was never R&B, so you have Diana and Horne miscasted, this seems to happen a lot when your adapting a play into a movie, they want to embellish it, Quincy Jones arrangements for the music didn't work, again the sound of the orchestra from the original cast play was beautiful
@@manuelcampuzano558 The original director that made THE WIZ a hit on Broadway, Joe Layton, was so dismayed by the changes that he disowned it and refused to have anything to do with the movie. I think he could smell disaster.
Hands down STEPHANIE!!!! Diana was just a bigger name and they figured she would make the movie more money.
I preferred Stephanie Mills. Although you made a great argument about the adaptation of the Diana Ross role, it all got down to which character the audience cared about. We all could identify with a teenage girl being lost in a strange environment and wanting to get home; but who really cared about an adult woman--a school teacher, trying to find her place in the world. I was twenty-five and didn't need the help of a wizard to have a brain, heart, and courage to find what I wanted to do with my life.
I would love to meet Stephanie Mills. This year my girls and i will be dressing up as the cast from the The WiZ. Love love love Stephanie Mills
Stephanie. Hands down. Nothing against Diana because she's a hell of a singer...BUT:
Stephanie has the PIPES...she easily would hold her own opposite Michael.
I love the raw funky soulful sound that the Original Broadway cast album has... especially track# 2 Tornado.
I love the work Quincy Jones did on the film, but the OBC absolutely holds its own!
Both were great in their respective mediums for this story. I really enjoy Diana's interpretation and believe it was ahead of its time. Stephanie did her thing on Broadway. I can enjoy both and glad both were done.
Diana Ross looked a idiot in the wiz movie and it was a shame she lobbied for the role. She was too old for the role.
Stephanie mills hands down. She played Dorthy on Broadway.
Its crazy because Ted Ross was the lion in the movie and the Broadway. Mable king, was Evilene in the movie, and Broadway
They’re my 2 favourite parts of the movie!!!!
Stephanie Mills should have got the part, and besides Micheal Jackson and Stephanie Mills was dating, it would have been nice
Stephanie Mills!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Have you heard Stephanie mills sing home? Omg that song belongs to her and only her hands down!!!!
Motown was committed to using Stephanie Mills as Dorothy and Michael Jackson as the Scarecrow. When Michael told Diana about his excitement for the role she wanted in as Dorothy. Berry Gordy told her no and she went over his head to get the part. So everything you've said is correct brother.
That’s what I thought! I came across a few conflicting accounts about how Diana’s casting happened, but this seems to be the most consistent story. Like I said in the video, I’m generally happy with Diana in the film but I would have loved to have had Stephanie’s performance documented either in a film or professional recording of the stage production.
@@TeacupForOne ruclips.net/video/gaAiCPFfEUs/видео.html
1978 when "The Wiz" came out, I was 4 years old. I remember my daycare center taking us to see it. That was a bad decision as far as I was concerned. I found it to be dark and creepy. And to be that age and actually live in New York City, they took it to another place. As you've stated the environment did look apocalyptic and I didn't know what to make of that. So throughout my childhood, i avoided this movie like the plague. I guess the management of the daycare thought that with people like Diana Ross and Michael Jackson it would be bright and upbeat. Guess again. To me all of the characters seemed strange and weren't connecting to the psyche of a child. Some years ago I purchased the film on DVD and decided to watch this as an adult. Immediately, I recognized why it had that impression on me. It was the cinematography, the characters and the atmosphere. As soon as Dorothy falls through the giant "Oz" sign, it's on. Between the munchkins coming out of the wall, the crows with sunglasses and ridiculously large beaks, the hideous flying monkeys, Evilene herself, that man in the subway with those things that grew to 7 feet tall. My goodness. A slew of oddities. There was another place to take this story and New York City in the late 70s was not it. Although, I did find Diana Ross as Dorothy and The Scarecrow, The Cowardly Lion and The Tin man refreshing as fast friends that displayed genuine love and support for one another. And, you're right, the line Dorothy delivers at the end speaks to being empowered and fearless. If they ever decide to remake this (which I'm sure they will) they have to go in a completely different direction aesthetically.
Diana was ruthless and always wanted her way and to be the star of everything.
She’d do whatever was necessary to be the star.
Stephanie should've gotten the role in the movie, they went off name value instead and pick Diana. The movie was a total flop. Stephanie's vocals most definitely out shines Diana's.
Stephanie Mills, she owns the song "Home".
Dorothy... Dorothy... Dorothy!! Stephanie Mills was is the better Dorothy in the Broadway show! Diana Ross was way too old to play Dorothy in the movie. Evil lean was the best part of the movie and the sub way scene. Just my opinion as an oz fan. I love Diana Ross in the supremes.
Even though I love Diana ross and i think that she did a wonderful job in the wiz,,I believe that Stephanie Mills fit the role better,,due to her age matching the age of dorothy,,in which would have made the movie seem more real if the age of dorothy matched the age of the actress....Also,,seems as if Stephanie was destined to play the role and should have been awarded the role in my opinion,,due to her amazing 7 years of playing Dorothy on Broadway,,where she mesmerized all those who saw the play......in fact,,Stephanie's amazing singing voice,,her short little girl stature,,her cute face,,her sweet voice,,and her sweet personality,, would have definitely made the movie more sensational...Also,,due to Diana Ross already being a huge star before the wiz was made,,I think it would have only been right to give Stephanie a chance to become a big star as well by giving her the role......in fact,,not just give her the role to help a young black talented woman get her big well deserved break in acting,,but give her the role due to her amazing 7 year run of playing Dorothy in the legendary Broadway play The Wiz,,in which she started playing at 15 years old.....I Truly believe that it was destiny for Stephanie Mills to play the role of Dorothy for the Movie,,and obviously despite destiny screaming very very very loud saying that Stephanie should recieve the movie role,,the loud scream of destiny was ignored for whatever reason...😔.....however,,I do understand the buisness frame of mind of the makers of the movie,,because they most likely thought that casting a well known popular Diana Ross,,would increase the sales of the movie..however,,if that was there reasoning for ignoring destiny it did not work,,because if im not mistaken the movie still flopped,,despite Diana Ross being in the film...like I said before,,I love Diana Ross very very very much,,and she did a spectacular job in the wiz,,one of my favorite movies ever...Also,,I love Stephanie Mills very very very much as well,,and I'm sure she also would have done a spectacular job if she would have gotten the movie role that was destined for her from above...😪🙏🏾
Also, fun fact, the film has a musical version of the physics laws of thermodynamics! “You can’t win” crazy eh?
STEPHANIE MILLS MOST DEFINITELY PREFER THE ORIGINAL CAST ESPECIALLY (STEPHANIE MILLS) AS (DOROTHY) STEPHANIE MILLS WAS AND STILL IS THE GREATEST PERFORMER AND SINGER SHE(STEPHANIE) (MILLS) NAILED THE ROLE AS (DOROTHY) HER VOICE. THE SOUND OF HER VOICE., IS (FLAWLESS) (UNIQUELY)(WELL) (PRESERVED) TO THIS VERY DAY HANDS DOWN STEPHANIE MILLS ❤️ 💙 👏! YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL AND I THANK YOU FOR PUTTING YOUR HEART AND SOUL INTO THE WIZ!!!! YOU MADE ❤️ THE WIZ INTO A (MASTERPIECE)!!!! ALSO THE (DEDICATION) YOU'RE DOING TODAY 👏 FOR THE (BLM) ETC.... YOUR HEART POURS INTO ALL YOU DO IS AN (INSPIRATION) APPRECIATE YOU AND GODBLESS!!!!.
Also. Michael Jackson was cast because of Diana Ross. He was not even considered until Diana Ross wanted him. The original actor was going to be Jimmy Walker from Good Times.
And he did good. Berry and the Jackson’s was going through their trouble at the time so that’s why berry didn’t want Michael on that role but he did good to be his first time. Jimmy is great too but I don’t think he could dance or sing like Michael could.
WOW
Wrong
Jimmie Walker....Hell Nah!!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
@@nakitawilliams4259
I still think about the JJ Dance from Good Times. 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Staphanie Mills IS Dorothy!!!! As a sixth grader during the 70's the broadway musical inspired my love for the performing arts. Stephanie should have played Dorothy in the movie. Stephanie's vocals are impeccable. Diana was too old for the role. Diana was great but Stephanie was the greatest!!!
You did an excellent analysis of “The Wiz”. Well researched and enlightening. Thank you!
Thank you!!!
I saw The Wiz on Broadway with Stephanie Mills and the last song of “Home” has remained in my memory my whole life. That said, I just watched the film and I was unimpressed with Ross until she sang the very last song! Wow.
Diana should have been cast as Aunt Em
The Wiz is my favorite film of all time! I saw it in the movies when I was a 7 year old little boy and I had always wished I had seen the Broadway version. Nevertheless, I enjoyed your commentary about the movie and play. Great job!
Well, done! Thank you for your work!
The Wiz is a black cult classic. Most families I know love it. Diana went behind Berry’s back to get that role. She should not have been in the film. I love Stephanie Mills but her acting is more suited to Broadway rather film. Maybe with help and training she could have adapted to film. Stephanie’s voice is amazing. She can make you feel in a way that it’s impossible to describe. She would have brought a since of youth to the role that young people would love. Maybe Irene Cara should have gotten the role of stephanie couldn’t do it. I love the film. It’s a cult classic
What's funny is they thought that this movie would break box office records with Diana Ross and Michael Jackson and it flopped.
Had they put the right woman in the role, it would’ve been a success.
@@nostalgik._ I think it would have been successful with SM.
@@nostalgik._ exactly. You’re correct. Ross ruined everything about this movie
@@nostalgik._ not true...
This is before mj off the wall...if after...would have been box office
I’m with Diana Ross. I don’t care what anyone else says. I loved her acting and her singing. She is a genuine artist.
Diana was so petty for that like Stephanie definitely deserved that role!!! I wish I could change time lmfao
Like I said, I really do love how the film turned out (I know I’m basically alone there 😅) HOWEVER I would have LOVED to see what ‘The Wiz’ movie could have been like with Stephanie….I’ve found some videos of her performance onstage and it would have been epic to capture on film.
Both are LEGENDARY 👏👏👏👏👏
Stephanie Mills all the way! What a loss that she didn't get to do the movie! What a treasure that would have been. Diana Ross was just too weepy and depressing, I'm sorry to say. It really brought the energy of the movie down. The savings grace of the movie was the supporting cast: Nipsey Russell, Ted Ross and (especially) Michael Jackson. Like Ted Ross, it was also great to have Mabel King back for the film, too.
Stephanie Mills, of course!👑
This was a great analysis. I think your points were spot on. The changes to Dorothy and the setting made the Wiz unique and distinctive from the Garland version. It’s a classic amongst black Americans.
Thank you!! I agree, The Wiz is so beautifully distinct from the 1939 film, it’ll always be one of my favourites 🤩
The one and only STEPHANIE MILLS should've portrayed Dorothy in The Wiz. Diana was laughable in the role.
All I can say I remember going to the movie to watch it. Every time Diana Ross thing I went to sleep. My opinion Lena Horne was it. Her part was the one.
Lena Horne is INCREDIBLE, and the perfect grand finale for the film! Thank you so much for watching!
I saw Stephanie on Broadway. It was one of the most stunning singing performances I've seen on Broadway over the course of my life.
No question about it. Stephanie Mills!!!!! Saw The Wiz three times on Broadway and it's still the most thrilling theatrical experience of my life. Nothing has ever compared to the original Broadway production before or since. The film was a horrid iteration with terrible creative choices. Miss Ross was simply miscast.
Although Diana was magnificent for the film adaptation, Stephanie was Dorothy and brought all of the magic to life for audiences!
I fully agree!
Stephanie should've play Dorothy 🤎🤎🤎
Brilliant analysis. Stephanie Mills will always own that role, no matter how much you adapt it, but I am not sure if she had been selected to play the part in the movie, the story would have worked. Diana Ross is a Superstar with two hit movies behind her, but her fan base had not only been composed of fanatics but critics as well. And although the movie was not a box office hit at first due to the critics it has grown over the years to be a very popular event, for audiences everywhere. Teachers in the minds of the public are viewed as nurturers of children not mentally unstable grown ups so perhaps had Ross role been that of a confused Teachers Aid, the part would have worked from the start. Remakes can work if done properly. After all I will always prefer Patti LaBelle’s version of “Over the Rainbow” to the Judy Garland original!
Wow you're right Patti LaBelle, Stephanie Mills, Michael Jackson, what it just turned it out.
One element you miss in your assessment of the movie is the heavy influence of the EST personal development craze that swept America in the late 70s. Diana Ross was all in on the programme and the script explores many of the concepts of the programme.
Despite the box office failure of the movie the greatest consequence of The Wiz was Quincy Jones as musical director coming into close contact with Michael Jackson who starred as the scarecrow. The pair struck up a friendship that became a working relationship that then led to a string of successful hit albums starting with Off The Wall and included Thriller.
During the filming in NYC during 1978 MJ, Quincy and Diana spent a lot of time at STUDIO 54. This was a major influence for all 3. MJ&Q created Off The Wall which was full of dance tracks and boosted his star status as a solo adult performer.
Diana collaborated on a successful album with Ashford & Simpson "The Boss" which also featured a suite of dance tracks- the entire album topped the Billboard Disco Album Chart in the late summer/early fall of 1979. All 3 quickly bounced back from the failure of the Wiz with two of the biggest albums of their careers.
Mills was good for the Broadway production and Ross was good for the film
Brooooo!! Love the content 🔥🔥🔥 we’re definitely looking forward to watching more 💎💎 woooooo🙌🏻
Both... Stephanie owned Broadway Diana owned film...she did revive from 1939... Stephanie has a FLAVOR all of her own...I LOVE BOTH of them...
STEPHANIE MILLS ...ALL THE WAY !!!
Matt Another Awesome Video
All were great 👍🏾
Back in the day Diana Ross and Michael Jackson were magic together and that helped a lot more popularity and views for the movie.
Now Stephanie Mills really had the voice! But I don't think she was as popular as Diana Ross at the time.
I dont think it was as successful because it was competing with The Wizard of Oz with Judy Garland which was a huge success.
This movie made my childhood ❤, think we all loved MJ singing and dancing.
For a musical Stephanie Mills coukdnt be beat but on screen with the dancers and actors from Motown like Michael Jackson and iconic stars like Lena Horn, plus Diana Ross doesnt look her age and small body frame, she could very well get away with it and did ❤.
Doesn't take away from Stephanie Mills, she is legend too with that big voice!
I don't think Stephanie even got nominated for a Tony award even though the Wiz won Best Musical. I love the Broadway Cast album (!) still. Stephanie still sounds great (June 2023).
Teacup for one, read the book how the wiz was, Universal produced the Broadway show and owned the film rights to the musical from the start of getting the funds to do the Broadway show.
I love your review
Sorry ross looked used and worn out as Dorothy..it was ridiculous..old women play I like girl
I love your subjective views of the movie adaption of The Wiz! You make very valid points! However, I still hate it as a movie! Stephanie Mills version of Dorothy Is embedded in my soul! Sometimes I feel like Stephanie dodged a bullet because had she been in the movie it still might have been corny because of the production surrounding her character! The only thing that would have made the movie exciting is her incredible voice and perhaps acting! I love Diana Ross as an artist but playing an older version of Dorothy was the worst mistakes she could have made in her career.
Thank you for watching, and sharing your thoughts!!! I love reading everyone’s perspective on this discussion, it’s a real testament to how much “The Wiz” means to people whether it’s the movie, soundtrack, original Broadway production etc…one way or another, it’s a true classic!
@@TeacupForOne And thank YOU sir for providing your commentary on this classic! It really breathes new life and interest to the conversation of the movie and the Broadway production of The Wiz!👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾❤❤❤
The one thing I would’ve done slightly different is instead of her coming from New York, I would've brought her back to somewhere in Kansas. Not so much a desolate farmland, but just a predominately African American small town kind of thing. It would've made the Thanksgiving opening and song work better being large family holiday gatherings is more correlated with closely-knit small town families. It also would've made this version of the land of Oz stand out so much more in contrast to the small town she would be coming from. Kind of like from the small town to the big city kind of thing.
I love the movie The Wiz and the soundtrack was great. I love that soundtrack. ❤❤❤❤❤
As much as I love me some Diana R., she should have passed & let Stepanie M., go ahead and knock it out! She sure would have no dobut! I'm okay with the outcome because for me? Diana R., could have played a cleaning lady to a madam who sings I'd have loved it! So I'm good either/or!
I love the movie...i just mention it to a friend of mine and immediately she went at Diana for having that roll....I never saw it live so I didnt Know....She was all Stephanie
This is a very good review. You make many valid points and your easy on the eyes too. Even though The Wiz seems misguided in comparison to the stage show...I think the movie is visually stunning and iconic. I love that the land of Oz is 70's NYC.
I love this movie and its scary af.
The problem with the movie was not just Diana being too old I think the movie is dated. Also feels like a horror movie. Now that you mention the city feel I love that idea I just wish they made it clean and beautiful. The message of it just felt really racist to me. That black people can't escape the ghetto. I wish they made the city look less apocalyptic and more paradise.
Diana Ross was very skinny and looked like a younger girl, she was already an established movie star and singer with Motown Berry Gorden on her side. She brought a lot of passion and flavor to the movie, love her and Michael Jackson worked together well❤, love how she kept her hair in a afro bec during that time it was catering to the black race since The Wizard of Oz was all white cast I believe and huge success.
Now Stephanie Mills also would've been perfect and yes I think Stephanie M was robbed on this because she was a natural talent better Broadway voice. But Stephanie Mills was built more like a women, they put alot make up and hair on her that kinda took away from the natural beauty and younger girl so I think they made right choice with Diana Ross.
Im glad Stephanie Mills went on to be a great singer❤🎉
Diana did her dirty. She went around everyone back to get the role.
I have absolutely no problem with the film because I am not a purist. I like the way they adapted the film as you say. I think Stephanie Mills has a purity and loveliness in her performance and Diana Ross brings a more seasoned voice. I can't really pick a favorite becsuse they offer different things in two different productions. - Loren
#Stephaniemills
Ms Mills is forever Dorthy after ms Judy Garland but I won't discount ms Ross and her powerful dedication to a fun packed elaborate production with the amazing cast... ms Ross wasn't a slouch in the role... Why even compare because I love listening to ms Ross version as well
My thoughts exactly! Thank you so much for watching :)
That's kind of a daft question, since they both DID!
It was a trick question, you win! 🎉 🥳
Stephanie Mills should have played the part. Barry Gordy bought the rights so Diana Ross could play the part.
I love both Stephanie Mills and Diana Ross. They are both great in different ways.
They're both March #Aries too.
I agree
Diana was too old to play Dorothy like WTH 🤣😂🤣 She should have played Auntie Em 🤣😂🤣
I'm normally a fan of Diana Ross, but, even if you don't see it, the failure of "THE WIZ" as a film in 1978, has EVERYTHING to do with Diana Ross' EGO! EGO EGO! and the changes that were made to the film to accommodate her EGO!!! Diana Ross as Dorothy is every bit as terrible as Lucy Ball grabbing "MAME" for herself in 1974--another "Vanity Star" Turn that I won't go into here! You said it, "The Wiz" movie is definitely divisive, and I hate it! A movie for trash bins. Sadly, "THE WIZ" movie totally ruined the reputation of THE WIZ"-- the stage musical; which is fun and closer than one might think to Baum's Book. Diana Ross got what she deserved, though. Her "movie career" (ahem) disappeared. Too bad the movie division of Motown was closed down, though. Oh, there is one small thing I DO like about "THE WIZ" movie 1978-- and that is the dog who played Toto. That dog is adorable, but not reason enough to ever watch this trashed movie ever again.
Mills obviously. Ross is scary looking no disrespect
Diana was great
I think diana ross is the winner of the day.
The black community loves both Stephanie and Diana. And the whole cast of the Wiz nailed it. MGM cannot touch the creativity of the Wiz. All memorable performances down to the flying monkeys.
Grown as woman stealing a kid role 😏 then makes it worse!
Diana Ross did an amazing job o the wiz. Stephanie mills didn’t own that role. I saw the movie first. For the first time I saw Stephanie’s performance . I think Stephanie was stage ready but not movie ready. Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. It worked
Dude.., Bro...Wow😮We have a lot in common/ similar interests. Where did you get that wicked cool witch t shirt? Also do you collect Oz? I'm close to your age, younger photo. Sup? 😘😉✌️
Stephanie Mills PERIODT👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
I pick Stephen for this song
Both! Perfect review of on stage and movie. I was born In an Era where I was able to see it on Broadway live and Stephanie and cast was AMAZING! I do agree no one can do it like Stephanie vocally, but Diana did her thing as well! Both are a staple in my ❤️. I just watched The Wiz the other day and it felt Iike #HOME
Seeing it on broadway must have been AMAZING!!! Thank you so much for watching!
Stephanie Mills.