The Wizardry of Oz: The Artistry and Magic of the 1939 MGM Classic (Applause Books);

(Applause Books). PUBLISHED ON THE 65TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE RELEASE OF THE FILM: AUGUST 15, 2004! The Wizard of Oz is one of the most popular and beloved motion pictures of all time. Seen by over one billion people worldwide since its 1939 premiere, Oz is an indelible part of our national consciousness and our earliest childhood memories. Why does this movie endure despite modern advances in film make-up and special effects? This lavishly illustrated book explores the construction of Oz at the height of Hollywood's golden age and under the auspices of filmdom's greatest studio. Details about Oz's make-up, costumes and special effects are revealed, accompanied by rare stills, Technicolor test frames, and blueprints over 300 color and B&W illustrations, many published for the first time! Actual costumes and props now priceless treasures are presented from the archives of memorabilia collectors, supplemented by never-before-conducted interviews with Oz's cast and crew. Written by the nation's leading Oz authorities, and with a foreword by the Cowardly Lion's make-up man, The Wizardry of Oz is a fascinating trip over the rainbow, from concept to realization. This book is an absolute must for Oz fans, film scholars, devotees of Judy Garland and Hollywood's golden era, or anyone who's ever wondered, "How'd they do that?" while watching this classic.