The most famous adaptation of The Wizard of Oz was released in 1939, nearly 40 years after the publication of the original book by L. Frank Baum.

Judy Garland was only 16 years old when she was cast as Dorothy Gale in The Wizard of Oz. She was made to wear a corset to appear younger and thinner. MGM had originally wanted Shirley Temple for the role. It’s also worth noting that in the book, Dorothy is portrayed as a young child, not a teenager.

The “Over the Rainbow” scene was almost cut from the film because it was thought to slow down the pacing.

MGM changed Dorothy’s silver slippers from the book to ruby slippers in the film to highlight the contrast between her shoes and the yellow brick road.

The ruby slippers are now considered among the most valuable movie props ever made.

The Wizard of Oz had five different directors during its production.

Margaret Hamilton, who played the Wicked Witch of the West, actually suffered burns on set and endured significant pain from the accident.

Buddy Ebsen was originally cast as the Tin Man, but he had a severe allergic reaction to the makeup and had to leave the role. He was replaced by Jack Haley. During one of Haley’s crying scenes, his makeup actually cracked. Much of the makeup used in the film was also extremely dangerous due to accidental ingestion and toxic ingredients.

The costume for the Cowardly Lion was made from real lion pelts.

The Wizard of Oz was not originally a success at the box office. Its popularity grew mainly from frequent television airings in later decades.

The film was nominated for six Oscars and won two.

The Munchkins were portrayed by both little people and some children in the background. The actor who played the Mayor of Munchkinland did not speak English, so his lines were dubbed.

Ray Bolger, who played the Scarecrow, originally auditioned for the role of the Tin Man.

A lot of the snow used in the film was actually made of asbestos, which is now known to be extremely hazardous to health.

MGM had plans to make a sequel, but it was canceled after a disappointing showing at the box office.