Production Hell - The Wizard Of Oz

Overview

This episode dives into the chaotic and dangerous production of The Wizard of Oz, revealing the shocking behind-the-scenes stories of one of Hollywood's most iconic films. From toxic working conditions to abusive treatment of actors, the episode uncovers the darker side of the so-called golden age of Hollywood.

Notable Quotes

- The making of The Wizard of Oz might be one of the wildest and most punishing productions in Hollywood history.

- They told me to get the hell back to work. – Buddy Ebsen, on being pressured to return after nearly dying from toxic makeup.

- They were little drunks. They got smashed every night, and they picked them up with butterfly nets. – Judy Garland, on the behavior of the Munchkin actors.

🎥 The Origins of the Film

- The 1939 adaptation of The Wizard of Oz was MGM’s ambitious attempt to replicate the success of Disney’s Snow White.

- The script went through 11 writers, and casting decisions were fraught with challenges, including Shirley Temple being unavailable and actors swapping roles.

- Judy Garland, at 16, was cast as Dorothy, though the studio initially wanted a younger child star.

💄 Dangerous Working Conditions

- Toxic makeup caused severe health issues: Buddy Ebsen (original Tin Man) suffered toxic shock from aluminum dust, while his replacement, Jack Haley, developed a severe eye infection from the altered formula.

- Margaret Hamilton (Wicked Witch) suffered third-degree burns during a pyrotechnic mishap, and her green makeup was flammable, compounding the danger.

- The Cowardly Lion’s costume, made of real lion fur, weighed over 90 pounds, causing the actor to overheat and fall ill.

🎭 Abuse and Exploitation of Actors

- Judy Garland endured relentless abuse, including being forced to take diet pills, stimulants, and enduring verbal insults like being called a little fat pig with pigtails.

- Director Victor Fleming slapped Garland during a breakdown to snap her out of it.

- The Munchkin actors were reportedly involved in inappropriate behavior, including harassment of Garland.

🔥 Environmental Hazards and Accidents

- The set was rife with hazards, including asbestos being used as fake snow in one scene.

- Pyrotechnic effects repeatedly malfunctioned, injuring both Margaret Hamilton and her stunt double.

- Even the dog playing Toto was injured, suffering a broken foot after being stepped on.

🎬 Legacy of a Brutal Production

- The grueling six-month shoot left lasting scars: Garland became addicted to drugs, Hamilton’s skin was dyed green for months, and Ray Bolger (Scarecrow) suffered permanent facial scars.

- Despite its initial box office disappointment, the film grew in stature over time, becoming one of the most beloved and influential movies in history.

- The episode concludes by questioning whether the film’s legacy was worth the immense human cost.