JanieK First Post: The Wizard Of Oz

"Toto,I've a feeling we're not in Kansas any more" Most people when hearing that line automatically think of the classic film "The Wizard of Oz". This magical movie was created in 1939 by MGM studios. The average person would assume that this film is nothing more then a 'chick flick' or just a movie. But only the people who know where to look can see the true magic behind the WIzard of Oz.

"Courage! What makes the flag on the mast to wave? Courage! What makes the elephant charge his tusk in the misty mist, or the dusky dusk?" Along the way to the Wicked Witch of the Wests home, there was originally a musical number titled "Jitterbug". There Jitterbug number was part of a subplot that got discarded early on in the writing process. The subplot would involve interesting charaters such as large subplot involving Princess Betty and the Grand Duke of Oz.

"Follow the yellow brick road!" When filming the transition scene between the black and white to the techni-color they used a special technique. The film could not switch from black and white to techni-color while filming the actors. They hired a stand in actor for dorothy who was wearing what the iconic blue dress would look like in black and white film. MGM painted the walls of her house to look identical to what they would look like on black and white film also. They filmed in technicolor, so that the first shot of Oz was colorful, but the house was in black and white. All of that preparation for a 6 second shot! Here is a link to the song! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4F9qw2CWm5k

Everyone may watch the movie, but I hope you can see the magic. Thanks!

What I am most excited about: I am excited to be in a new school! I can't wait to make new friends, join lots of clubs, and just enjoy myself.What I am least excited about: homework! I think some is okay, but i really do not like it when it takes hours!

Janie K