A star-studded cast and high-end visual effects accompany an interesting new prequel to a classic story that reveals the man behind the curtain in Disney’s “Oz the Great and Powerful,” directed by Sam Raimi. The movie stars James Franco as Oscar Diggs, a magician and con artist who, after being trapped in a hot air balloon during a tornado in Kansas, finds himself transported to smack dab in the middle of the merry ol’ land of Oz.

Shortly after a crash landing, Oscar (also known as “Oz”) meets a lovely young witch named Theodora, played by Mila Kunis, who believes Oscar is actually the fulfillment of a prophecy that anticipates the arrival of a powerful wizard who will save the land of Oz from impending doom. Oscar, always quick with the slight of hand, lies and schemes his way into the hearts of Theodora and various other characters (including a talking monkey who can fly, voiced by Zach Braff of “Scrubs” fame) until he seems to convince even himself that he is the wizard.

The plot thickens when the young witch guides Oz to the Emerald City to meet her sister, Evanora (Rachel Weisz), who acts as the kingdom’s steward until the rightful heir to the throne (the wizard from the prophecy), can appear and kill the Wicked Witch that terrorizes the land. Evanora tells Oz he must find this witch (who we learn is named Glenda, played by Michelle Williams) and break her wand.

It is during Oz’s confrontation with Glenda that true intentions are revealed, and the con artist realizes he is in way over his head. The ensuing story is one of heartbreak, hope, destiny and the art of getting over yourself.

Or at least, that’s what Disney wants you to think. The truth is, there’s nothing that great or powerful about this movie, unless you’re under the age of five (in which case you’re easily bored by things anyway; so, the movie’s effect will be about the same).

It’s not that “Oz” isn’t entertaining; it’s just that I’d be more entertained watching afternoon soap operas with my grandmother (although, the plot would lead you to believe the movie is a soap opera, especially when trying to explain how the Wicked Witch of the West became so wicked).

The special effects in this movie do for the land of Oz what Tim Burton did to Wonderland in 2010; that is, create a place of magic and mystery that is made overly epic and too fantastical to look good on screen (to put it simply, the CGI moves from spectacular to horrible in a matter of moments).

What’s amazing is that some of the best acting in the movie comes from computer generated, supporting characters, such as the talking monkey, Finley, who steals the show with comic relief and warm-hearted lines of ooey-gooey sweetness.

What’s even more amazing is how mediocre Franco and Kunis are as two of the main characters. Oz the wizard goes from being cheesy and sneaky, to being cheesy and sneaky with a little more character; while, Kunis’ Theodora is unconvincing and … well, you’d have to watch the movie.

To put it simply, picture a really good high school play where the most attractive kids are cast in the big roles. Then, give that play a $300 million budget and you’ll have this movie. Honestly, I’d pay more to see a high school play of just about any caliber before I’d pay to see this one again. It’s not the worst — and there are some great moments for 3D audiences — but at best, I’d recommend waiting to just rent it.