Raimi insisted Elfman, that the team were working on L. Frank Baum's early 20th century Oz novels and not from the film.

For many listeners, such details won't matter, but that is what distinguishes a solid, workmanlike score from one destined to be a classic.

"[16] A review from Beyond the Marquee stated "Of particularly high merit are the delicate emotional chords of Oscar’s character arc from con man to wizard hero.

This would be even better had Franco’s acting skills matched the melodies in quality but, to quote comedian Steven Wright, 'you can’t have everything… where would you put it?

'"[17] ClassicFM wrote "Danny Elfman's soundtrack gets off to a fantastically glitzy start, with orchestral and choral bombast to spare - perfect vintage Hollywood fare.