The fantasy epic The Wizard of the Emerald City moves forward with a bold new chapter as Svetlana Khodchenkova steps into the role of a powerful antagonist for the upcoming installments. A recent trade bulletin shared via Film Distributor’s Bulletin signaling the casting choice has stoked excitement among fans eager to see how this familiar foe will reshape the Oz-inspired world. Khodchenkova brings a reputation for gravitas and danger, and her return signals a decisive shift in the series as it expands its mythos and raises the stakes for the protagonists on their continuing journey.
In the movie’s second installment, the core group led by Ellie will push beyond known territories into a newly imagined Violet Land. This fresh setting promises adventurous puzzles and unforeseen hazards that will test the friends’ resolve and unity. A central challenge will come from the notorious Flying Monkeys, whose high-flying antics push the team to coordinate quickly and think on their feet. Khodchenkova also reprises her role as Bastinda, the hunter of misfortune who repeatedly shadows the troupe, reinforcing her position as a recurring pillar of peril within this reimagined universe. Dmitry Chebotarev joins the cast as the enigmatic newcomer Urfene Dzhus, while director Igor Voloshin guides the cinematic exploration of friendship, courage, and the fine line between fantasy and reality as the story unfolds.
In the opening film, Khodchenkova embodied Bastinda, and Chebotarev appeared in the role of Juice. The performer has spoken about how makeup and the wardrobe create a seamless blend between the actor and the character, a candid reminder of the transformative craft behind the scenes. The ensemble includes Evgeny Chumak as the Scarecrow, Arthur Vakha as the Cowardly Lion, Yuri Kolokolnikov as the Tin Man, and eight-year-old Ekaterina Chervova portraying Ellie. This blend of a youthful heroine with a seasoned supporting cast highlights the movie’s aim to balance timeless fairy-tale archetypes with contemporary storytelling, delivering a narrative that resonates with both longtime fans and new audiences across North America.