The Untold Story: The Making Of The Wizard Of Oz

Step behind the curtain and immerse yourself in the captivating world of The Wizard Of Oz. Unveiling the secrets and challenges faced during its production, this article provides an exclusive peek into the making of one of the most iconic films in history. From the meticulous casting process to the groundbreaking technological advancements, join us on this magical journey through the vibrant Land of Oz.

The Birth of a Classic

It all began in the early 1930s when Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) decided to bring L. Frank Baum's beloved novel, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," to life on the silver screen. The studio spared no expense to create an enchanting cinematic experience that would captivate audiences for generations to come.

With an ambitious vision in mind, MGM assembled a remarkable team of talented individuals, each contributing their expertise to the film's success. From the visionary director Victor Fleming to the talented cast, including the iconic Judy Garland as Dorothy, every element of the production was carefully crafted.

The Making of The Wizard of Oz

by Aljean Harmetz (75th Anniversary ed. Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7589 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	360 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Casting the Right Spell

The role of Dorothy Gale was pivotal to the film's narrative. After an extensive search, the young and immensely talented Judy Garland was chosen for the part. Her extraordinary portrayal of the innocent yet determined girl from Kansas is etched in the hearts of fans worldwide.

While Garland's casting added a significant touch of magic to the production, other cast members played equally vital roles. Ray Bolger as the Scarecrow, Jack Haley as the Tin Man, Bert Lahr as the Cowardly Lion, and Margaret Hamilton as the iconic Wicked Witch of the West delivered performances that brought these beloved characters to life.

Innovations in Filmmaking

One of the most revolutionary aspects of The Wizard Of Oz was its extensive use of Technicolor, a groundbreaking color-film process at the time. The vibrant and eye-catching visuals conveyed the distinct transition from the ordinary black-and-white world of Kansas to the extraordinary and fantastical Land of Oz, leaving audiences awe-struck.

Additionallly, the magnificent sets and the usage of miniatures created a breathtakingly immersive experience. From the towering Emerald City to the treacherous Wicked Witch's castle, each location was meticulously crafted to transport viewers into the magical realm of Oz.

Overcoming Obstacles

The production of The Wizard Of Oz faced numerous challenges, yet the cast and crew's resilience and determination prevailed. One of the most memorable obstacles was the search for the perfect ruby slippers for Dorothy. After several attempts, the dazzling red sequin-covered shoes became an icon in themselves, forever entwined with the enchanting tale.

Another significant hurdle was the Wicked Witch's makeup. Initially, the heavy copper-based makeup used gave Margaret Hamilton severe burns during a fiery scene. After a significant recovery period, a milder aluminum-based makeup was invented to ensure her safety without compromising the wickedness of the character.

Enduring Legacy

Upon its release, The Wizard Of Oz was met with critical acclaim and immense commercial success. Its timeless charm and captivating storyline continue to resonate with audiences of all ages, firmly establishing its place in cinematic history. Countless adaptations, spin-offs, and tributes have paid homage to this beloved classic.

Moreover, the film's iconic songs, such as "Over the Rainbow" and "We're Off to See the Wizard," have become timeless anthems, forever etching The Wizard Of Oz into the collective memory of pop culture.

The making of The Wizard Of Oz was a monumental feat that involved creativity, determination, and innovation. From the unforgettable performances by the talented cast to the groundbreaking technological advancements, this cinematic masterpiece has left an indelible mark on the film industry.

As we journeyed through the colorful Land of Oz, we got a glimpse of the tireless efforts invested in creating this magical world. The Wizard Of Oz remains a timeless enchantment, reminding us of the power of imagination, the triumph of friendship, and the enduring magic of the silver screen.

The Making of The Wizard of Oz

by Aljean Harmetz (75th Anniversary ed. Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7589 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	360 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Released in conjunction with the 75th-anniversary DVD release of The Wizard of Oz, this book is the definitive story of how one of America’s most beloved movies was made and a marvelous, unprecedented examination of how Hollywood used to make movies. This updated edition includes numerous photos and shares hundreds of interviews with cameramen, screenwriters, costume designers, directors, producers, light technicians, actors, and more to reveal how the factory-like Hollywood system of moviemaking miraculously produced one of the most enduring films ever made. From the scandalous headlines of Munchkin orgies at the Culver City Hotel and the Witch’s (accidental) burning to the building of the Emerald City and the sewing of nearly 1,000 costumes, The Making of The Wizard of Oz provides a richly detailed re-creation of MGM’s production No. 1060 and a detail-by-detail, department-by-department look at the most powerful and flamboyant studio Hollywood has ever known.

From the ten scriptwriters at work to the scandal headlines of Munchkin orgies at the Culver City Hotel to the Witch's (accidental) burning, here is the real story of the making of The Wizard of Oz. This richly detailed re-creation brings alive a major Hollywood studio and reveals, through hundreds of interviews (with cameramen, screenwriters, costume designers, directors, producers, light technicians, and actors), how the factory-like Hollywood system of moviemaking miraculously produced one of the most enduring and best-loved films ever made.

We watch it happen--the bright, idiosyncratic, wildly devoted MGM-ers inventing the lines, the songs; flying hordes of monkeys through the sky; growing a poppy field; building the Emerald City (and 60 other sets); designing and sewing the nearly 1,000 costumes; enduring the pressures from the front office; choosing the actors.

Here is Oz, a marvelous, unprecedented experience of studio life as it was lived day by day, detail by detail, department by department, at the most powerful and flamboyant studio Hollywood has ever known--at its moment of greatest power.