The Wizard of Oz
Nearly a century old, The Wizard of Oz remains a cultural cinema reference, evoking a mix of nostalgia, colorful visuals, and dark behind-the-scenes drama. With the recent premiere of Wicked starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, renewed interest in the original inspiration has sparked once again discussions about the film's overall significance as a cult movie.
Beyond the revolutionary Technicolor cinematography and fantastical aspects of the entire set, The Wizard of Oz offers a timeless and relatable tale of a young girl escaping reality and adventuring on a magical journey after feeling misunderstood by her relatives. It's a story that resonates with both children and adults, reminding us that even when we feel lost, the answers we seek might be closer to us than we think. Sometimes, the eagerness to look for something else might require a bit of introspection and a whole lot of hope to overcome challenges and find our way.
Something well-known about the making of The Wizard of Oz was all the controversy surrounding it. Many cast and crew members had several health issues due to the toxic chemicals used in makeup and special effects. Even Judy Garland, the iconic Dorothy Gale, faced major pressure and personal struggles as a result of her fame. In recent years, conspiracy theories have emerged on social media, suggesting the movie set was "cursed” further adding to the film's dark and mysterious legacy.
Some people online even remember the film as quite scary, particularly due to the Wicked Witch of the West's sinister laugh and her evil threats towards children. This was, however, a common trope in children's films of that era.
The lore of The Wizard of Oz offers a subversive message. Basically, Dorothy dreams of escaping her very ordinary life in Kansas and exploring the unknown, a place she calls "over the rainbow." This term can symbolize a place of escape, a better version of oneself, or simply a more positive outlook on life, even when the journey becomes overwhelming.
By confronting challenges, meeting diverse people, and understanding their struggles, Dorothy learns that the process of growth and self-discovery is often more rewarding than the destination. This resonates deeply with the most trending concept of "trusting the process."
I personally remember The Wizard of Oz as a fascinating blend of magic and intrigue. The film's vibrant colors of an old movie, stunning costumes, and iconic fashion pieces, like Dorothy's ruby slippers. These aspects remain unmatched, even as a new adaptation of Wicked is on the horizon. Yet, the film's darker undertones, such as the Wicked Witch of the West and the tragic fates of its main actors, have added to its mystique within pop culture.
Oz, as an imaginary place, sparks curiosity and invites symbolic interpretations, giving insights into our own journeys. Ultimately, the film's timeless impact lies in universal themes of self-discovery, courage, and the power of imagination.
This story transcends the typical battle between good and evil, a plot often seen in traditional children's stories. The Wizard of Oz presents a more intricate moral lesson that isn't easily understood at first. Perhaps we've all felt lost in our own Oz at some point in our lives, searching for meaning and purpose in a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain.
The Wizard of Oz (1939)(From left) The Tin Man (Jack Haley), the Cowardly Lion (Bert Lahr), Dorothy (Judy Garland), the Scarecrow (Ray Bolger), and the Wizard of Oz (Frank Morgan) in The Wizard of Oz (1939), a film directed by Victor Fleming © All rights belong to their respective owners. No copyright infringement intended.
