[net.movies] A Marxist Analysis of The Wizard of Oz

miker@sri-unix (07/19/82)

A newly emerging nation (Dorothy) and its loyal peasantry (Toto)
are seeking a rational social order (Kansas).  Advised by the
bourgeoisie (Munchkins), they take the capitalist path (Yellow Brick
Road).  They meet a labourer (Tin Man) destroyed by class oppression
(rust), a soldier (Cowardly Lion) exploited by imperialism and a
philosopher (Scarecrow) beguiled by Ayn Rand.  They are confused by
religious dogma (poppies) and attacked by the US (Wicked Witch of the
West) and its CIA agents (flying monkeys), but defeat them with the
cool clear logic of Marxist analysis (water).  They seek the answer
from capitalist economics (the Wizard) but discover it to be an empty
facade.  With the selfless aid of the USSR (Good Witch of the North)
they discover that the true answer has been with them all along--the
dictatorship of the proletariat (ruby slippers).

Maybe Walter Winchell was right when he said that Hollywood was full
of communists!

vax1:witters (07/21/82)

Owner's Rule!

-Revolutionary Capitalist Party

(Seen on washroom on Mercer Island)
~v