Tin Man

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Season 1
User Score
6.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 103 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 62 out of 103
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 103
  3. Negative: 27 out of 103
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User Reviews

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  1. LeZee
    Aug 31, 2014
    8
    The main concept was borrowed from 'Wizard of the Oz', but a modernized with the three episode tale. The director is not a stranger to me, because I liked his previous television mini series 'Neverland'. That was another reason why ended up watching this one. As far my observations, this director is very creative because he just takes the original concept as an inspiration and improvisesThe main concept was borrowed from 'Wizard of the Oz', but a modernized with the three episode tale. The director is not a stranger to me, because I liked his previous television mini series 'Neverland'. That was another reason why ended up watching this one. As far my observations, this director is very creative because he just takes the original concept as an inspiration and improvises it. Those were really the good work to build something around the original idea and somewhere he overlaps between the two to make a connection. In an understandable way to say, his TV mini series all were kind of unofficial prequels or sequels to the original classic fantasy tales.

    DG is a small town waitress that she's not happy to spend her rest of the life there. She always dreamt to escape it in search of a cheerful life. Like a wish come true, one night a storm take her to a land called OZ. It is a paradise, but affected by a magical spell cast by the evil force. She meets the people who suffered from the evil queen's outrage. Later she comes to know the reason she was brought there and her involvement in the ongoing issues in OZ. The present and the past both were simultaneously narrated about what happened and is happening and what should be done to stop the bad things. So the Dg's journey commences accompanied by a few men who help her to travel safe.

    ‘‘I'd shoot you in the heart if I thought you had one.’’

    The film had lots of upgrading items, like it was set in the modern world still the main character hop into the magical world called OZ. Here the OZ is abbreviated from 'Outer Zone'. All the three episodes were so good, each of them had twists at the end. The story was unexpectedly good, the fan of the original tale will definitely love it. The concept of protagonist and antagonist was built on a reasonable plan that will probably satisfy most of us at the end. It can be viewed by all ages. No silly costumes for the characters like from the storybooks. As it was a television product the quality was normal standard.

    Of course the technology and other options were easily fetchable, but the filmmaker used all the computer related resources in a limit. It's not like that they can't offer it, but to keep everything simple. I loved everyone's performances. In fact, Kathleen Robertson, who was in a negative role impressed a lot than the Zooey Deschanel. No one had the tough stunts in the movie, but felt that Zooey Deschanel had not comfortable with them. The guest appearance of the original tale was a surprise. Overall, it is the movie, a must see by the 'Wizard of the Oz' fans. A few things you must remember before giving it a try. It was kind of an sci-fi-fantasy, but the story and twists were the highlights.    … Expand
  2. Tss5078
    Feb 22, 2013
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Several years ago, the SyFy channel decided to take a crack at re-inventing the classic Wizard of Oz, a noble task, that many have tried and failed. I didn't know what to expect, but I assumed it would be some variation of the classic tale, hoping it would be more the like books and less like the films. Tin Man is defiantly not for kids and takes a unique approach to the classic story. In this version, OZ is not the friendly loveable place with strange characters and happy times for all. It's a dark story, about a dark place, where presently there is a lot of pain and misery. The big twist in the story is that this OZ is centuries past the one visited by Dorothy Gale. In the Outer Zone (O.Z.), Dorothy Gale is a revered as the start of the royal families bloodline, but she has been dead for centuries! That being said, quite ingeniously, the future residents of the O.Z. parallel the old story, but not because they have to, they are in a sense mocking the original story in subtle ways. There's D.G. (Zooey Deschanel), the girl from the other side, who was forced into the O.Z., with no memory of ever having been there before. She soon meets Glitch, (Alan Cummings) a man who had part of his brain removed for disobeying the Queen. As they try to figure out what is happening around them, they run into a man (Neal McDonough) being punished in a Tin Man suit. This man was a Cop or Tin Man in the O.Z. who was deemed a threat, and put into this horrible form of torture. Finally, they come to the rescue of a native healer, named Raw (Raoul Trujillo), who has become trapped by carnivores and is about to become dinner. Together they go to see the wise man, to find out how to proceed in helping D.G. The Wise Man (Richard Dreyfuss) turns out to be a drugged out magician doing parlor tricks! There are a million other parallels to the original story that make the journey through the O.Z. that much more enjoyable. Zooey Deschanel is the star and even though people often mistake her unique style of acting for inexperience, she was the perfect choice to play D.G. The other standout is veteran character actor, Neal McDonough, who gives a gut wrenching and strong performance as the tortured former cop, in search of his family. The rest of the supporting cast was equally as impressive, taking you through the full range of emotions. As I said before, this is certainly not the OZ you grew up with and it's certainly not what I expected. Everything from the special effects, to the story, and even the modernization, was extremely impressive. It really is a shame that this was only a three part mini-series, but this would have made for one hell of a regular series. Some of the parallels are obvious, but there were plenty of times where I legitimately forgot that I was watching The Wizard of Oz. Leave the musical for the kid, this is what Frank Baum had in mind when he started this series, and it's most defiantly meant for mature audiences only.… Expand
  3. brucem
    Dec 7, 2009
    7
    I liked the characters although the ending was convoluted and wanting also Zooey seems out of it and the tin man character over acts the violence just did not fit
  4. RyanI
    Aug 1, 2009
    9
    I'm too young to remember the 1939 movie fondly. I have watched it once or twice and found it pretty boring and uninteresting. This that in mind, I have to say I found Tin Man a much better version of the story. The acting isn't the best, I found the acting of DG to be pretty lacking early in the series.However Glitch and Cain are pretty good. The story itself is really where I'm too young to remember the 1939 movie fondly. I have watched it once or twice and found it pretty boring and uninteresting. This that in mind, I have to say I found Tin Man a much better version of the story. The acting isn't the best, I found the acting of DG to be pretty lacking early in the series.However Glitch and Cain are pretty good. The story itself is really where the story shines. It is very interesting and the writers put alot of thought into it. Tin Man is well worth a watch. Just remember that it's not a remake, it's a re imaging.… Expand
  5. DeshawnW
    May 12, 2009
    7
    I found this to be a very bold and imaginative re-telling of the original Wizard of Oz story. Kudos to Sci Fi for having the courage to highlight the plight of mentally disabled people everywhere by replacing the traditional character of Dorothy with the lovable but obviously mildly retarded character of DG, aptly played by Zooey Deschanel.
  6. TS
    Nov 1, 2008
    10
    Best remake/remix of an old story EVER. As a fan of the original, I actually prefer this version.
  7. FloR
    Feb 26, 2008
    10
    Was I the only one who paid attention when the Sci Fi channel stressed "reimagining" and NOT remake. I thought it was smart and brilliant. It held a very clever twist to a tale that has perhaps passed its luster. If you don't have a stick up your backside about being an Oz purist, as they call it, just sit back and enjoy the show. It really is quite interesting. I hope for a series Was I the only one who paid attention when the Sci Fi channel stressed "reimagining" and NOT remake. I thought it was smart and brilliant. It held a very clever twist to a tale that has perhaps passed its luster. If you don't have a stick up your backside about being an Oz purist, as they call it, just sit back and enjoy the show. It really is quite interesting. I hope for a series or sequel.… Expand
  8. AgnesT
    Feb 7, 2008
    8
    The Tin Man is a great rendition of
  9. MichaelV.
    Feb 5, 2008
    8
    Really cool and nice plot and story. Definitely could have shaved about 1 1/2 hours from that... it took me like 1 month to watch the whole thing =D!
  10. MisterMac
    Jan 17, 2008
    10
    I think that the original WoO was a fairy tale type of story (no insult intended), this is a more realistic and specific adaptation of the story. The part where Azkadeelia is trying to force DG to remember by charming was an impressive scene. She was pretending to be caring to DG, but when she turned her back her face contorted just slightly to show frustration, but she never lost cool. I think that the original WoO was a fairy tale type of story (no insult intended), this is a more realistic and specific adaptation of the story. The part where Azkadeelia is trying to force DG to remember by charming was an impressive scene. She was pretending to be caring to DG, but when she turned her back her face contorted just slightly to show frustration, but she never lost cool. The actress did a perfect job, but its a shame the sister was no longer evil, because her menacing good looks are unacceptable for a loving sister.… Expand
  11. LisaW.
    Dec 29, 2007
    10
    I enjoyed the variations of the WOZ theme. The characters were allowed to shed some powerlessness. WOZ fans understand that Oz is really about trials in life, every journey is different. I really hope that these producers plan some stories for all the principle characters. Who knows ,more plot development could take us on a wider scene of the O.Z.. s yellow brick trek.
  12. TomC.
    Dec 24, 2007
    9
    I have to say that I thought it was fantastic the storey-lone was nicely played out and the acting was good. The characters were well portrayed and the effects were decent. People were expecting this to be a cut and dry sequel to the Wizard of Oz, and I think if you expected that you would be dissappointed but I thought for the story they did it was fantastic.
  13. PamelaP.
    Dec 23, 2007
    10
    Great show! It had the exciting darkness of the book, 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz', but kept the charm of the movie, 'The Wizard of Oz'. Well Done!
  14. JackB
    Dec 13, 2007
    9
    "The Wizard of Oz" was for little kids that grew up during the Great Depression. "Tinman" is for post-Matrix adults who can't help but pause whenever someone mentions "deja vu". My only question is, why call it "Tinman" if you're not going to make it about him? We all love Zooey Deschanel, but imagine how much harder edged it could have been if it had really been about Neal "The Wizard of Oz" was for little kids that grew up during the Great Depression. "Tinman" is for post-Matrix adults who can't help but pause whenever someone mentions "deja vu". My only question is, why call it "Tinman" if you're not going to make it about him? We all love Zooey Deschanel, but imagine how much harder edged it could have been if it had really been about Neal McDonough's character?… Expand
  15. BrentM
    Dec 10, 2007
    9
    Good adaptation with some very good acting. I liked the tie-ins to the original Wizard of Oz and the story line was engaging. It could have been shorter, but with all the reality garbage on most network stations, this was a welcome respite. It seems like most of the negative reviews were written by pompous a**es.
  16. AM
    Dec 10, 2007
    7
    Interesting re-telling; nice references back to the original. The DG actress is bad, the other sister was great.
  17. JoeM
    Dec 9, 2007
    10
    What you think of this miniseries has a relationship with your outlook. If you watch it expecting to see a Judy Garland-esque portrayal of Dorothy, you will be sadly disappointed. This is not written for kids, "Wizard of Oz" was. If you watch it with an open-mind, and not putting Sci-fi in 'a box', then I think you will like it. There are several allusions to "Wizard of Oz" What you think of this miniseries has a relationship with your outlook. If you watch it expecting to see a Judy Garland-esque portrayal of Dorothy, you will be sadly disappointed. This is not written for kids, "Wizard of Oz" was. If you watch it with an open-mind, and not putting Sci-fi in 'a box', then I think you will like it. There are several allusions to "Wizard of Oz" which made it even more enjoyable. Open your mind and clear your thoughts and you will be pleasantly surprised. This is an adult sci-fi.… Expand
  18. digitalaaron
    Dec 9, 2007
    10
    If you watch Tin Man assuming you will see a brick road with a shade of yellow you will be disappointed. It was an interesting take on a timeless classic.
  19. JoeC
    Dec 9, 2007
    7
    Let's start with the problems : There are fits of awkward dialogue occur every now and then and there are some absurd plot holes that even if you're suspending belief are still pretty immense. Still the rate at which these occur is about on par with six hours of watching other sci-fi/fantasy fare. The special effects do look a bit rough throughout. the pros: the story by itself Let's start with the problems : There are fits of awkward dialogue occur every now and then and there are some absurd plot holes that even if you're suspending belief are still pretty immense. Still the rate at which these occur is about on par with six hours of watching other sci-fi/fantasy fare. The special effects do look a bit rough throughout. the pros: the story by itself is a fun sci-fi/fantasy take on the Oz story, the acting is more than capable for a yarn of this caliber and the sets and costumes are interesting overall summary : for six hours, you could do a lot worse, just don't go in expecting too much,… Expand
  20. WillS.
    Dec 9, 2007
    10
    I honestly enjoyed it. The characters were endearing and entertaining. Up until the last minute where it ended rather abruptly I was fully with them. The end didn't change my perspective, and I fully hope that it becomes a series.
  21. Peter,N.VA
    Dec 5, 2007
    10
    It's incredible to me how many viewers apparently didn't :get" it! It was not a re-telling of the "Wizard of Oz;" it was a sci-fi fantasy with tongue-in-cheek parallels and references to it. Sooe of the reviewers are slower than they claim that this plot was. "Tin Man" is reminiscent of Sci Fi's "Flash Gordon" series in that it's about the characters: personal It's incredible to me how many viewers apparently didn't :get" it! It was not a re-telling of the "Wizard of Oz;" it was a sci-fi fantasy with tongue-in-cheek parallels and references to it. Sooe of the reviewers are slower than they claim that this plot was. "Tin Man" is reminiscent of Sci Fi's "Flash Gordon" series in that it's about the characters: personal relationships set in a visually stunning backdrop of a dark, often threatening theme. ` I "got it," and I loved it!… Expand
  22. BillyH.
    Dec 5, 2007
    10
    It's not the Wizard of OZ. It's a re-imagining, a different story, based very loosely on elements from the original. I found it very compelling, cute, funny, and enjoyed the subtle but evident elements from the original story. Those of you comparing it the original missed the point of it.
  23. JohnR
    Dec 5, 2007
    9
    This is a captivating rewrite. It is worth watching again. Those looking for a Wizard of Oz musical will be disappointed. This isn't a musical. But it is a story about a girl finding her ways through a strange land of magic and an evil sorceress chasing after her. The sorceress in this story was very well done. She makes evil a fashion statement. I like it. :)
  24. NormO.
    Dec 5, 2007
    8
    I enjoyed this revision of the Baum story. Of course I had no disilliusion about comparing to the original film and it never pretended to be such. I think it could be edited to, say, a 2 1/2 hr movie very well. Its updated characters and story can be seen as a darker, modern retelling. The cast was fine and Zooey was perfect for her part.
  25. Brad
    Dec 5, 2007
    9
    Great story telling, imaginative, excellent
  26. GradyP.
    Dec 4, 2007
    8
    I don't understand why most everyone hates Tin Man. It's by no means perfect, but it's one of the more memorable and high-quality things on TV this year, IMO. And most seem to have a problem because it's not a proper adaptation of The Wizard of Oz. However, it's not really meant to be. And even so, all the references to Oz will still make you think "Oh, I don't understand why most everyone hates Tin Man. It's by no means perfect, but it's one of the more memorable and high-quality things on TV this year, IMO. And most seem to have a problem because it's not a proper adaptation of The Wizard of Oz. However, it's not really meant to be. And even so, all the references to Oz will still make you think "Oh, that's clever". It's definitely a lot more satisfying than most of the summer blockbusters this year, which it could've been passed off as and have been a lot more worth seeing than, oh, I don't know, Pirates. Also, just worth noting that the actress that plays Azkadellia puts on a fantastic show. She's hauntingly bitchy, and seems to have the facial features and voices of Madonna & Lauren Graham (of Gilmore Girls fame) rolled into one, and that's a good time right there.… Expand
  27. NatalieE
    Dec 4, 2007
    8
    This movie goes to all age groups but it applies to people that actually enjoy it. Maybe they did spin it off a bit odd but I thought it was very entertaining and brought life back to the old classic Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz. I do believe though it was outrageously long but the cliff hangers were nice. I liked the ending because it was a bit cheesy on how it was all good in the end This movie goes to all age groups but it applies to people that actually enjoy it. Maybe they did spin it off a bit odd but I thought it was very entertaining and brought life back to the old classic Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz. I do believe though it was outrageously long but the cliff hangers were nice. I liked the ending because it was a bit cheesy on how it was all good in the end and everyone lived. I guess it really depends on your sense of liking to the production and to the ideas some people like it some don't.… Expand
  28. Roy
    Dec 4, 2007
    7
    While this miniseries is nothing like the 1939 classic, it does come closer to the actual book in some respects, I feel a lot of people that say this skins are basing their opinion on the 1939 movie which in reality goes farther from L Baum;s novel but then again most people are familiar with Judy Garlland's film than with the novel itself.
  29. AngM
    Dec 4, 2007
    7
    This is not the Wizard of Oz but because it's been promoted as a "re-telling" the producers set the bar very high for expectations and automatically bring the viewer to look for the common threads in the storyline--there are very few "common threads". So, once you stop comparing and just watch the show as these 4 individuals in a surreal, magical, parallel universe fighting an evil This is not the Wizard of Oz but because it's been promoted as a "re-telling" the producers set the bar very high for expectations and automatically bring the viewer to look for the common threads in the storyline--there are very few "common threads". So, once you stop comparing and just watch the show as these 4 individuals in a surreal, magical, parallel universe fighting an evil sorceress you can then enjoy it for what it is...an entertaining, fantasy Sci Fi picture. I'm enjoying it but have to admit that I'm hoping for a "didn't see it coming" type of ending instead of DG waking up in her bed and realizing this is only a dream....guess I'll find out tonight… Expand
  30. WillC.
    Dec 4, 2007
    10
    Okay, let's give them a break. It's not a remake, but a re-invention of a great story with some really intriguing characters. While Azkadelia falls short of providing the menacing presence I had hoped for (I keep comparing her to Jadis in Narnia and am, admittedly, disappointed), the rest of the cast has won me over and I can't wait to see how it ends. So at the end of the Okay, let's give them a break. It's not a remake, but a re-invention of a great story with some really intriguing characters. While Azkadelia falls short of providing the menacing presence I had hoped for (I keep comparing her to Jadis in Narnia and am, admittedly, disappointed), the rest of the cast has won me over and I can't wait to see how it ends. So at the end of the day, isn't that "mission accomplished" for a made-for-tv movie? I really have loved it and will proudly commit to one more night.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

63
#63 Best TV Season of 2007
25
#25 Most Discussed TV Season of 2007
14
#14 Most Shared TV Season of 2007

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
53

Mixed or average reviews - based on 20 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 20
  3. Negative: 5 out of 20
  1. Chicago Sun-Times
    Reviewed by: Doug Elfman
    25
    The execution of "Tin Man" is flat, flatter, flattest. The dialogue is utilitarian, except when it's "Dungeons and Dragons" cliche.
    Read full review
  2. Chicago Tribune
    Reviewed by: Maureen Ryan
    70
    Tin Man’s heart is in the right place, even if the execution of the story evokes, from time to time, creakiness of the metal man’s limbs.
    Read full review
  3. Entertainment Weekly
    Reviewed by: Ken Tucker
    58
    Unfortunately, Robertson's heaving bodice is her most expressive aspect; this miniseries needed a villain with a wicked sense of humor, but she and the rest of Tin Man are dour and punitive.
    Read full review
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