Road to Oz: The Evolution, Creation, and Legacy of a Motion Picture Masterpiece

The Road to Oz is a comprehensive retelling of the creation and influence of The Wizard of Oz, featuring newly discovered period interviews, media resources, transcriptions, and contemporary interviews with those involved. The book offers a detailed synopsis of L. Frank Baums The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and the 1903 Broadway musical-comedy extravaganza, as well as an analysis of prior silent film adaptations and Sam Goldwyns proposed Technicolor musical version. It also reveals startling revelations about the operetta that inspired "Over the Rainbow," Judy Garlands trials and tribulations with the studio, and the Munchkin midgets' pre-1939 connection to Oz.

Format: Hardback
Length: 392 pages
Publication date: 01 December 2018
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The Road to Oz is a comprehensive exploration of the influence and creation of The Wizard of Oz, as well as its iconic status. Written by Jay Scarfone and William Stillman, the new volume delves into recent research and uncovers a wealth of information through newly discovered period interviews, media resources of the era, transcriptions, and exclusive contemporary interviews with those who were part of the journey. Accompanied by never-before-published imagery, this historical contribution offers a captivating glimpse into the world of Oz.

The text provides a thorough synopsis of L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1900) and the script inspired by the book for the 1903 Broadway musical-comedy extravaganza. It explores the plots of prior silent film adaptations of Oz and their impact on the M-G-M film. Additionally, it delves into newly discovered audio transcriptions of Wizard of Oz radio programs from 1931-32 and 1937-38, previously unknown to the public.

The book also offers a comprehensive analysis of Sam Goldwyn's proposed (and abandoned) 1934 Technicolor musical version of Oz starring Eddie Cantor. It includes commentary from Cantor's sole surviving child, providing insight into the project's development and demise.

Furthermore, the text presents a thorough analysis of the October 10, 1938 M-G-M shooting script, which predates the beginning of production by seventy-two hours. It sheds light on the original vision of the film and offers startling revelations about the operetta that seemingly inspired "Over the Rainbow."

The book also delves into Judy Garland's trials and tribulations with the studio, including the threat that M-G-M was grooming a sound-alike who tested for Oz. It also reveals the supporting player who was cast in two roles in Oz's fantasy sequence, the second role being revealed for the first time in Scarfone and Stillman's text.

The Munchkin midgets, who played a significant role in the film, are also explored in detail, offering a glimpse into their lives and contributions to the iconic story.

In conclusion, The Road to Oz is a remarkable historical contribution that sheds new light on the creation of The Wizard of Oz. With its comprehensive analysis, exclusive interviews, and never-before-published imagery, it provides a captivating and insightful journey into the world of Oz's iconic status. Whether you are a fan of the film or a scholar of its history, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the magic and wonder of this timeless masterpiece.

Weight: 780g
Dimension: 258 x 186 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781493036295