In the history of film, few movies have had the impact on the level of “The Wizard of Oz.” The 1939 film from director Victor Fleming could possibly be the most famous movie of all time. Despite a lackluster box office performance upon its release, its airings on television eventually became yearly viewing events and cemented the film as a permanent piece of popular culture. The legend of its popularity extends to the making of the movie, which had its fair share of problems, to put it mildly.
All of that, the good, the bad, and the legendary, is seeking to be captured in a documentary titled “Oz,” with some help from Leonardo DiCaprio.
There have been stories and rumors about what happened during the production of “The Wizard of Oz.” From the very real situation with Wicked Witch actress Margaret Hamilton suffering burns, Judy Garland‘s physical deterioration, and so much more. That’s what happens when something takes on such a grand life of its own, the tales, both true and false, become part of a narrative. “Oz” has a lot of ground to cover, but DiCaprio’s Appian Way is more than up to the task.
“’The Wizard of Oz‘” remains deeply embedded in our culture, and its impact continues to resonate today,” DiCaprio said. Director Tom Donahue has a whale of a task ahead of him but he’ll have access to previously unseen footage and audio to help showcase the history of the film. He’ll be joined by Verdi Productions and producer Danny Strong in bringing the documentary to life. Reportedly, reenactment filming is currently happening, indicating we’re going to be looking at something more than just a series of talking head interviews.
“The Wizard of Oz” as a franchise is finding another life recently thanks to the success of the film adaptation of the theatrical musical “Wicked.” The announcement of “Oz” comes the week leading up to the debut of “Wicked: For Good” on November 21st. “Wicked” made over $750 million at the box office, and took home two Oscars at the 97th Academy Awards, for Best Costume Design and Best Production Design.
The magic of “Oz” has persisted for nearly 90 years in cinema and it’s arguably stronger today than it has been in a very long time. If ever a documentary about a movie had its work cut out for it, it’s this one. The documentary is due out sometime in 2026.
