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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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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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Wizard of Oz Fact #106: The Emerald City's Symbolism
The Emerald City, with its radiant green towers and utopian design, represents an idealized American cityscape. In L. Frank Baum’s vision, it symbolizes progress, technology, and civilization: a stark contrast to the rural Kansas of Dorothy’s origin. Modern adaptations, including The Emerald Signal of Oz, continue to explore the city’s mystique and hidden layers.
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Source: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
Wizard of Oz Fact #105: L. Frank Baum's Revolutionary Approach
L. Frank Baum created Oz as a deliberate departure from European fairy tales. He wanted an American fairy tale with American characters and values. Published in 1900, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz became one of the first bestselling children’s books in the United States.
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Source: L. Frank Baum Official Biography
Wizard of Oz Fact #104: Oz as Allegory for Silver Standard
Many scholars interpret L. Frank Baum’s Oz books as political allegory. The Yellow Brick Road represents the gold standard, while Dorothy’s silver shoes symbolize the monetary debate of the 1890s. The Scarecrow represents farmers, the Tin Man represents industrial workers, and the Cowardly Lion represents political figures.
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Wizard of Oz Fact #103: The Wicked Witch's Green Makeup
Margaret Hamilton, who played the Wicked Witch of the West, had to wear toxic copper-based green makeup for the role. The makeup was so harsh it caused skin irritation, and she suffered minor burns during a fire scene. Despite the discomfort, her performance became iconic.
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Source: Margaret Hamilton Biography
Wizard of Oz Fact #102: Judy Garland's Age During Filming
Judy Garland was only 16 years old when she filmed The Wizard of Oz, though Dorothy was written as a younger character. Her performance became one of the most celebrated in cinema history, earning her a special Academy Award.
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Source: Judy Garland Biography
Wizard of Oz Fact #101: Dorothy's Ruby Slippers
In L. Frank Baum’s original 1900 novel, Dorothy’s magical shoes were silver, not ruby. MGM changed them to ruby red to showcase Technicolor’s capabilities in the 1939 film. The iconic ruby slippers have become the most recognizable shoes in cinema history.
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Source: The Wizard of Oz (1939 film)