Let me tell you an important life lesson: When you're chatting with William Shatner, watch every single word you say. Why? Because the man has a knack for turning your own words against you in the most delightful way possible. Take this conversation about his latest project, the animated film The Steam Engines of Oz. This isn't just any movie—it's a fresh take on the iconic Wizard of Oz universe, and Shatner himself plays the role of the Wizard. At first, the discussion was all about how enjoyable the story is, how engaging the characters are, and how charming the whole experience feels. But then we got to the animation… and let’s just say, it’s a bit of a mixed bag.
“How do you spell ‘eh’?” Shatner asks me with a twinkle in his eye, after I casually drop that word to describe the animation. I confidently suggest "e-h." Fast forward to later in our chat, and I foolishly ask him what the strength of the film is. Without missing a beat, the legendary actor fires back, “I thought it was the animation.” Cue an embarrassingly loud laugh from me followed by a hearty, “Well done, sir!”
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Exploring 'The Steam Engines of Oz'
Based on the graphic novel by Arcana Comics, The Steam Engines of Oz is set a century after Dorothy Gale's unforgettable journey through the magical land of Oz. Surprisingly, things haven't exactly turned out as one might hope. In this new tale, a young engineer named Victoria finds herself teaming up with the Scarecrow, the no-longer-cowardly Lion, a group of tough munchkins, and none other than the Wizard himself to recover the Tin Man's heart. Their mission? To restore order and bring an end to the Tin Man's tyrannical reign over Oz. It’s a thrilling adventure that continues the legacy of L. Frank Baum's original world, sparking the imagination of fans both old and new.
(Photo Credit: Cinedigm)
Shatner on the Enduring Appeal of Oz
When asked about the timeless allure of Oz, Shatner reflects on the idea that behind every person lies another, more complex individual. This hidden complexity is what keeps audiences coming back for more. “It’s as intriguing a truth as some of the stuff that I’ve done that I have no explanation for why they remain such perennials,” he muses. He points to examples like Star Trek, which continues to captivate fans decades after its debut. But he also mentions certain episodes of The Twilight Zone that remain fan favorites, airing frequently and resonating deeply with viewers.
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Classic Tales That Stand the Test of Time
Shatner reminisces about his memorable performances in The Twilight Zone, such as "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet," where he plays a man recovering from a nervous breakdown who spots a gremlin on the wing of an airplane. Everyone thinks he's crazy, but the final shot reveals the shocking truth. Then there's "Nick of Time," where his character becomes obsessed with a fortune-telling machine, unable to make decisions without its advice. These stories, he says, tap into universal truths like the fear of flying or the dangers of superstition. It's this connection to deeper truths that keeps them relevant and engaging.
Shatner also shares his thoughts on the appeal of voicing the Wizard in The Steam Engines of Oz. He credits Frank Morgan's portrayal of the Wizard in the 1939 film as a source of inspiration. “Frank Morgan played multiple roles before we even
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