Amazing Facts about The Wizard of Oz

Judy Garland’s Diet and Smoking Habit: Despite being only 16, Judy Garland was made to smoke 80 cigarettes a day to suppress her appetite. Her strict diet included prescription drugs to keep her weight down and maintain her appearance.

The Scarecrow’s Pythagorean Theorem Mistake:

Ray Bolger as the Tin Man: Originally cast as the Scarecrow, Ray Bolger convinced the producers to recast him after being inspired by Fred Stone’s onstage performance. He then took on the role of the Tin Man.

Buddy Ebsen’s Toxic Reaction to Aluminum Powder:

Jack Haley as the Tin Man: After replacing Buddy Ebsen, who suffered a toxic reaction to aluminum paste makeup, Jack Haley continued in the role of the Tin Man. However, he didn’t report severe reactions like Ebsen; instead, he complained about an eye infection.

No Footage of Buddy Ebsen as the Tin Man:

Judy Garland’s Corset: To appear younger and match her character’s physique, Judy Garland wore a painful corset-style device on her chest during filming.

Technicolor and Its Impact:

MGM’s Production of The Wizard of Oz: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer produced the film, which was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture. However, it didn’t make profits from its initial release despite popularity.

1949 Re-release and Success:

First Test Screenings: The film underwent two hours of screenings at the beginning, before being edited to a more manageable 101 minutes.

Musical Selections:

Harold Arlen and E. Y. Harburg’s 21 Songs: The film features 21 songs composed and written by these two creators, with “Over the Rainbow” being the most popular.

Margaret Hamilton’s Role:

The Witch of the West: Margaret Hamilton, who played the Wicked Witch of the West, was a lifelong fan of the “Oz” books and auditioned for her role.

The Emerald City’s Gelatin Powder Horses:

Toto the Dog: The dog in the film was paid around $125 a week. Many background actors were paid similarly.

Hamilton’s Burn Injury:

Stunt Doubles for Fire Scenes: Margaret Hamilton, who had a severe burn injury during filming, refused to participate in scenes involving fire. Her stunt double took over.

Accidents During Filming:

Margaret Hamilton’s Broken Toe: Many accidents occurred during the film’s production, causing delays in its release.