Episode 4: The Wiz

Time to ease on down the road!On this episode of Blind Buys, Jesse and Josh find themselves in the Emerald City in search of Sidney Lumet’s spectacular Motown musical, The Wiz. They discuss Josh’s “Oz fatigue”, do a deep dive into the cast members’ careers in the 1970s, and revel in the joy and the craft of the big production numbers. Plus, Jesse talks catching The Testament of Ann Lee in theaters, Josh offers his thoughts on his first-ever rentals from Scarecrow video, and next episode’s pick is revealed!Want to ask us a question or send us your comments to be read on air? Email us at [email protected]!Follow Josh and Jesse on Letterboxd! 00:00 Intro01:10 Opinions on "There Goes the Neighborhood"04:53 What We've Been Watching: "Testament of Ann Lee", "The Muppet Show" Reboot09:45 Josh's Rentals from Scarecrow Video14:16 Discussing Radiance's May Release Slate18:48 Warner Archive Collection Announcements for March25:10 "Marty Supreme" on 4K & A24's Physical Media Release Strategy28:19 "The Wiz" Synopsis and Opening Thoughts40:59 Notes on the Cast/Crew of "The Wiz" and Their Careers in the 1970s46:08 The Songs and Dances of "The Wiz"50:37 Exploring Themes of Family, Fear, and Finding Your Purpose54:29 Character and Storytelling Choices in "The Wiz"56:51 Additional Thoughts and Favorite Bits58:46 The Wizard's Characterization in "The Wiz"01:02:06 Discussing Criterion's 4K Edition of the Film and Where it Falls Short01:04:57 Is "The Wiz" a Keeper?01:05:27 Answering Thom's Question about Boutique Labels01:12:49 Next Episode's Pick