The Wizard of Oz is a 1939 American musical fantasy film produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) and directed by Victor Fleming. The film is an adaptation of L. Frank Baum's 1900 children's fantasy novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The film stars Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale, Frank Morgan as the Wizard, Ray Bolger as the Scarecrow, Bert Lahr as the Cowardly Lion, and Jack Haley as the Tin Man. The film follows Dorothy Gale and her dog Toto as they are swept away by a tornado from their Kansas farm to the magical Land of Oz, and embark on a quest with three new friends to meet the Wizard and find their way back home.
The Wizard of Oz is considered a classic and has been praised for its groundbreaking visuals and storytelling. It has won several awards and nominations, including three Oscars. The film has also been recognized for its cultural impact and has been referenced in popular culture. The film's underlying story has been described as penetrating straight to the deepest insecurities of childhood, stirring them and then reassuring them.
Plot
The plot of The Wizard of Oz follows a young girl named Dorothy and her dog Toto, who are swept away by a tornado from their Kansas farm to the magical Land of Oz. In order to return home, Dorothy must follow the Yellow Brick Road to find The Wizard of Oz, who lives in the Emerald City. Along the way, she meets three new friends: a Scarecrow in search of a brain, a Tin Man in need of a heart, and a Cowardly Lion looking for courage. Together, they embark on a quest to meet the Wizard and find their way back home. However, they must first defeat the Wicked Witch of the West, who is determined to stop them.
Trailer
Cast
- Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale
- Frank Morgan as Professor Marvel, Guardian of the Gates, Cabbie, Soldier, and The Wizard of Oz
- Ray Bolger as Hunk and the Scarecrow
- Bert Lahr as Zeke and the Cowardly Lion
- Jack Haley as Hickory and the Tin Man
- Billie Burke as Glinda the Good Witch of the North
- Margaret Hamilton as Miss Gulch and the Wicked Witch of the West
- Clara Blandick as Auntie Em
- Charley Grapewin as Uncle Henry
Other actors played various roles, including the Munchkins and the citizens of Emerald City. The film's cast has been praised for their performances and their ability to bring L. Frank Baum's beloved characters to life.
Director: Victor Fleming
Writer: L. Frank Baum, Noel Langley, Florence Ryerson, Edgar Allan Woolf
Box Office Gross: $25,637,669
Distributor: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Genre: Kids & Family, Fantasy, Musical
Release Date (Theaters): Aug 25, 1939
Rerelease Date (Theaters): Nov 6, 1998
Release Date (Streaming): Sep 29, 2009
Theme
The theme of The Wizard of Oz revolves around self-discovery, friendship, and the idea that the things we seek are often already within us. The journey of the main characters, particularly Dorothy, highlights the importance of courage, heart, and intelligence, which are represented by her companions. The contrast between the monochromatic Kansas and the vibrant Land of Oz also underscores the theme of transformation and the search for fulfillment.
Reception
The Wizard of Oz received widespread acclaim for its innovative use of Technicolor, memorable music, and timeless storytelling. While it was not a major box office success upon its initial release, the film has since become a cultural phenomenon and is regarded as one of the greatest films in cinema history.
Production Challenges
The production of The Wizard of Oz faced various challenges, including the casting changes, especially for the role of the Tin Man, and the complex special effects required to bring the Land of Oz to life. Additionally, the film had multiple directors, with Victor Fleming ultimately receiving the primary directorial credit.
Settings, Visual Styles, and Techniques
The film features distinct settings, with the sepia-toned Kansas contrasting the vivid colors of the Land of Oz. The use of Technicolor was a groundbreaking visual style at the time, and the film employed innovative techniques to create magical elements, such as the tornado and the Emerald City.
Trivia & Fun Facts
- The film's iconic song "Over the Rainbow" won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
- The role of Dorothy was originally intended for Shirley Temple, but Judy Garland ultimately won the part.
- The "Munchkinland" sequence was one of the most elaborate and expensive scenes to produce, featuring complex set designs and choreography.
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