One of the most spectacular events in film history happened in the most amazing year of film – The Wizard of Oz premiered in 1939. Arguably the greatest family film of all time, “Oz” appeals to all moviegoers of all ages in every era. Even though the story has been committed to celluloid many times before (as early as 1910) and since (a poorly rendered animated version in 1991), it is the 1939 production that remains the quintessential adaptation in the hearts of movie fans, due in no small part to it’s impeccable timing in re-emerging when the film industry could only do its absolute best to ensure perfection.

The success of The Wizard of Oz doesn’t need to be explained; everyone already knows why he or she likes it. Simply put, it is a well-constructed story executed by a tremendous pool of talent that has never been matched and is unlikely to be again. Perhaps the most fortunate aspect is that it was MGM that acquired the rights and not some other studio. It was MGM that had the young Judy Garland under contract who was the only really satisfactory choice to fulfill the role of Dorothy Gale. With all due respect, Shirley Temple (the original choice) would have been fine, but Garland’s ethereal little-girl-lost personae made the character immortal.

“Oz” also benefited from an exceptional supporting cast including Frank Morgan, Ray Bolger, Bert Lahr, Jack Haley, Billie Burke and Margaret Hamilton. Coupled with the stunning special effects of a tornado that still rivals any CGI generated model and the ingenious use of Black and White photography used in the opening scenes, The Wizard of Oz is the ideal rendering of the perfect childhood tale.         

(click on names for IMDB.com listings)