10 Most Nerve-Wracking Scenes In Non-Horror Films

7. Return To Oz - Most Of It

Return To Oz
Buena Vista Production

Everyone remembers the joy of The Wizard of Oz. For many, it was one of the first films to which their parents exposed them. There were menacing images, from the wicked witch herself to the flying monkey battalions, but it was all harmless fun set to songs that are a part of pop culture to this very day. The shift from drab brown and white to magical colour is a landmark moment in visual storytelling, and it's overall dreamlike fantasy. Those who don't have some reaction to it have less of a heart than the Tin Man.

In 1985, Hollywood decided to revisit the world created by author L. Frank Baum with Return to Oz. Though it performed poorly, it does retain a cult status - particularly among horror fans. That may seem odd, until you see it. The creature designs range from terrifying to downright bizarre, with creature designs better suited for a Mad Max, steampunk sequel. While more faithful to Baum's vision, it's generally considered too nightmarish for children.

What do you expect when one of the cinematographers was an uncredited Freddie Francis, fresh off a run of the gothic horror of Hammer Studios?

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Contributor
Contributor

Kenny Hedges is carbon-based. So I suppose a simple top 5 in no order will do: Halloween, Crimes and Misdemeanors, L.A. Confidential, Billy Liar, Blow Out He has his own website - thefilmreal.com - and is always looking for new writers with differing views to broaden the discussion.