The Wizard Of OZ Turns 80

Ruby Slippers, It’s Time To Go Back Down The Yellow Brick Road.

- Alana Wulff

If there is one movie that defines the magic of Hollywood – and its ability to transport audiences to another place – it’s The Wizard of Oz.

The beloved and timeless movie – which this year celebrates its 80th birthday – made an international star out of a 16-year-old Judy Garland, who famously played Dorothy. The role changed her life in ways she could never have imagined.

NO PLACE LIKE HOME

As fans remember, Dorothy left Kansas looking for adventure, only to realise she missed home. She meets the Scarecrow (Ray Bolger), the Tin Man (Jack Haley) and the Cowardly Lion (Bert Lahr) on the Yellow Brick Road, and they help her get back to her family.

While the heartfelt message of the film gave hope and happiness to audiences throughout the world, Judy’s real life was anything but sunshine and rainbows. Longstanding Hollywood rumours about her abusive treatment at the hands of studio executives were rife, with many claiming the actress was given ‘pep’ pills on set to help her lose weight and keep up with the vigorous pace of shooting.