by A fairy‑tale adventure born of a whirlwind, a yellow‑brick road, and the power of friendship
A magical land begins with a gust of wind. A whirlwind carries a young girl, Ellie, and her dog Toto far from home — to a place where the Munchkins live, where unusual characters walk along the yellow‑brick road, and where everyone seeks their cherished wish. This story is familiar to generations of readers, and in its new screen adaptation it receives a modern visual interpretation while preserving the spirit of Alexander Volkov’s classic fairy tale.
SCREENING ANNOUNCEMENT
The Wellington Russian Club invites children and adults to a family screening of “The Wizard of the Emerald City” (2025). Come with your whole family — it will be magical, fun, and warmly welcoming.
Date and time:
Sunday, 27 September 2026, 14:30
Venue:
Newtown Community Centre
Corner of Colombo & Rintoul Streets, Newtown
The film is shown in Russian with English subtitles.
Recommended age: 6+.
Please consider the film’s duration and the needs of younger children.
Admission:
$10 — a charitable contribution that helps cover expenses and supports the cultural initiatives of the Wellington Russian Club.
After the screening: A friendly tea gathering will follow. You are welcome to bring pastries, sweets, or a homemade dish for the shared table — a wonderful opportunity to meet people, talk, and enjoy a warm community atmosphere.
This screening is part of the cultural programme of the Wellington Russian Club and is open both to Russian‑speaking residents and to all New Zealanders interested in Russian culture.
Contact: wellingtonrussianclub@gmail.com
ABOUT THE FILM
During a whirlwind, Ellie and her little dog Toto are transported to the Magic Land. To return home, they must reach the Emerald City by following the yellow‑brick road. Along the way Ellie meets new friends — the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, and the Cowardly Lion. Each of them has a dream they hope to ask the great wizard Goodwin to fulfil.
The film is based on Alexander Volkov’s classic book series about the Magic Land. The project continues the tradition of family fantasy familiar to generations of readers. Modern visual effects and vivid artistic stylisation help convey the atmosphere of a fairy‑tale world. The story highlights the values of friendship, courage, and mutual support — key themes of the original literary universe.
Sequel
The second part — “The Wizard of the Emerald City: The Great and Terrible” — is planned for release in 2027.
