Marketing for Sam Raimi’s Oz: The Great and Powerful has begun in Italy with a poster showcasing star James Franco as the Wizard.

What’s that? You’re not sure what the premise is?

The movie is a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, following the Wizard, who, at the time, was merely known as an illusionist. Forced to run from the circus in a hot air balloon and — as you guessed it — is swallowed by a tornado and sent to Oz. Once there, he encounters witches who possess real magic.

Mila Kunis and Rachel Weisz join as Theodorah and Evanora.

Oz: The Great and Powerful comes out in theaters March 8, 2013.

[Heat Vision]