The Wonderful Wizard of Oz: 50 Years of Magic (1990)

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz: 50 Years of Magic Poster

Documentary about the making of the 1939 MGM classic film The Wizard of Oz. Includes interviews of cast and crew members, their families and fans of the film.

Intro and Introduction
"The Terrific Wizard of Oz: 50 Years of Magic" is a 1990 documentary that commemorates the golden anniversary of the renowned movie, "The Wizard of Oz". The documentary, directed by Jack Haley Jr. and hosted by Angela Lansbury, revisits the making of the 1939 classic, unearthing never-before-seen video and interesting anecdotes about the cast and production team.

Behind the scenes of "The Wizard of Oz"
This 50-minute documentary walks audiences through the elaborate procedure of developing "The Wizard of Oz", from protecting rights and casting to actual filming and post-production. It highlights the battles come across throughout production, such as the makeup accidents that put cast members at threat and the problems associated with creating the Tin Man's outfit.

The documentary also reveals fascinating trivia, like the modification of Dorothy's silver slippers in the novel to ruby red for the movie. Furthermore, the audience is provided a peek into the set styles, using Technicolor, and the musical numbers that added to the film's whimsy and charm.

Destiny and the Legacy
"The Wonderful Wizard of Oz: 50 Years of Magic" shines a spotlight on the stars who brought the story to life. One segment is devoted to remembering Judy Garland's brilliant efficiency as Dorothy and the impact this role had on her profession.

The documentary likewise covers the unfortunate death of the initial Tin Man star Buddy Ebsen due to the toxic silver paint and how Jack Haley subsequently filled the function. Moreover, it enters into the lives of Ray Bolger (Scarecrow), Bert Lahr (Cowardly Lion), and Frank Morgan (Wizard), as well as unforgettable side characters.

The documentary commemorates the legacy of this widely adored film, discussing its long-lasting appeal and influence on pop culture. The filmmakers clarified how "The Wizard of Oz" ended up being a worldwide phenomenon, resonating with numerous generations and motivating countless adjustments and reinterpretations in numerous kinds of media.

Margaret Hamilton's Recollection of the Wicked Witch
One of the documentary's emphasize features is an interview section with Margaret Hamilton, who played the Wicked Witch of the West. She shares her memories of the making of the film and her firsthand experiences dealing with the director and co-stars. Hamilton likewise explains both the obstacles and thrills of representing the infamous villain, consisting of the painful burns she withstood during one scene and her discomfort with the monkey stars.

Conclusion: A Nostalgic Tribute
Concurrently useful and classic, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz: 50 Years of Magic" seamlessly integrates archived footage, interviews, production pictures, and important commentary. It highlights the amazing efforts behind one of cinema's most charming classics. In doing so, it pays a fitting homage to the magic, artistry, and withstanding cultural impact of "The Wizard of Oz", acknowledging its unshakeable standing as a foundation of filmmaking that continues to mesmerize audiences even after half a century.

Top Cast