Tag: Classic Cinema

Wizard of Oz Fact #114: The Song 'Over the Rainbow'

“Over the Rainbow,” composed by Harold Arlen with lyrics by E.Y. Harburg, was nearly cut from the film because executives thought it slowed down the narrative. Garland’s emotional performance saved the song, which went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song and become an American classic.

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Source: Over the Rainbow Academy Award

Wizard of Oz Fact #113: Baum's Vision of a Childless Oz

L. Frank Baum envisioned Oz as a place where children could visit but ultimately must return home. This grounded the fantasy in a moral framework about childhood, growth, and the importance of family: themes that continue to resonate in modern Oz adaptations.

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Source: L. Frank Baum's Philosophy of Oz

Wizard of Oz Fact #112: The Munchkinland Sequence

The Munchkinland sequence required 124 Munchkin actors, most of whom were people with dwarfism from circuses and sideshows across America. This was one of the largest ensemble casts ever assembled for a film at that time.

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Source: The Wizard of Oz: Munchkins

Wizard of Oz Fact #111: The Tin Man's Costume Challenge

Jack Haley, who played the Tin Man, wore a heavy aluminum costume that weighed over 60 pounds. The costume got so hot under the studio lights that he had to take frequent breaks. His feet were particularly affected, as he had to wear heavy metal boots.

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Source: Jack Haley Biography

Wizard of Oz Fact #110: Oz Books Continue Beyond Baum

L. Frank Baum wrote 14 Oz books before his death in 1919. The series continued with contributions from other authors, eventually expanding to over 40 official books. The Land of Oz remains one of the most expansive fictional universes in children’s literature.

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Source: The Oz Series Bibliography

Wizard of Oz Fact #109: The Scarecrow's Improvised Dancing

Ray Bolger, who played the Scarecrow, improvised much of his physical comedy and dancing. His rubber-limbed movements were so effective that they became one of the film’s most memorable elements. Bolger had originally auditioned for the role of the Tin Man.

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Source: Ray Bolger Biography

Wizard of Oz Fact #108: Multiple Actresses Considered for Dorothy

Before Judy Garland was cast, MGM considered Shirley Temple for the role of Dorothy. However, Temple’s studio refused to loan her out. Several other young actresses were tested, but Garland’s combination of acting ability and vocal talent made her the perfect choice.

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Source: The Wizard of Oz: Casting History

Wizard of Oz Fact #107: Toto Was Paid More Than Some Actors

Terry, the dog who played Toto, was paid $125 per week: more than some of the Munchkin actors. The film’s total budget was $2.8 million, making it one of the most expensive films of its time.

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Source: The Wizard of Oz Production Facts