WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ, THE: THE MAKING OF A MOVIE CLASSIC (CBS 2/20/90) Angela Lansbury, Liza Minnelli, Lorna Luft

Everything you ever wanted to know about the making of The Wizard of Oz is here.

This engaging documentary explores the creation of MGM’s beloved Technicolor classic, from its lavish production and original New York premiere at the Capitol Theatre to its celebrated place at the February 1940 Academy Awards—where Gone With the Wind reigned supreme.

Narrated with warmth and elegance by Angela Lansbury, the film traces the history of L. Frank Baum’s Oz stories, the casting decisions behind the iconic characters, and the challenges faced by the cast and crew under the blazing Technicolor lights. Ray Bolger and Jack Haley recall the punishing makeup and costumes that made even eating at the studio commissary an ordeal, while Judy Garland, seen in rare television clips, humorously embellishes tales from the set—prompting daughters Liza Minnelli and Lorna Luft to note their mother’s legendary wit and playful exaggeration.

Director Mervyn LeRoy discusses the evolution of the production and the decision to place the film in the hands of Victor Fleming, following earlier involvement by Richard Thorpe and George Cukor. Vintage footage captures Garland and Mickey Rooney besieged by fans and photographers at Grand Central Station during their personal appearances at the Capitol Theatre, as well as their visit with Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia at the 1939 New York World’s Fair. Highlights include Garland receiving her special Academy Award for Best Juvenile Performance.

Packed with revealing behind-the-scenes stories, the documentary details Buddy Ebsen’s near-fatal Tin Man makeup ordeal that led to Jack Haley’s recasting, and Margaret Hamilton’s harrowing account of the accident that left her severely burned during the Wicked Witch’s fiery exit. The film also reveals early abandoned concepts for the Witch—including makeup tests with Gale Sondergaard—and demonstrates how the legendary cyclone effect was achieved.

Illustrated throughout with memorable scenes from the film, this documentary is an affectionate, informative celebration of one of cinema’s most enduring fantasies—essential viewing for anyone who has ever followed the Yellow Brick Road.

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Number of DVDs: 1

Quality: 9.5/10

Region: 0

Running Time: 51 min (approx)

Aspect Ratio: Fullscreen, 1.33:1

IMPORTANT NOTES: This is a fan-made collection on high-quality DVD-R discs. It is intended for collectors and fans. Do not order if you are expecting a commercially packaged boxed set with full-color disc art. There is no retail packaging included. 

DVDs are shipped in protective sleeves.

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