The Wizard of Oz, a classic film from 1939, is currently experiencing a new wave of attention. This renewed interest has led to the uncovering of unsettling allegations about its production. People are now revisiting this beloved movie with a modern lens and discovering aspects that were previously unknown.

Uncovering the Dark Side of The Wizard of Oz's Production

Allegations Surrounding the Use of Toxic Materials

Content creators have taken to social media to bring to light troubling aspects of The Wizard of Oz's behind-the-scenes history. Eveleen Pahau, who posts on TikTok as @youareen0ugh, shared a video showing how she felt watching a scene involving "snow" that may have been made of asbestos. Mesothelioma.com states that Hollywood notoriously used asbestos as fake snow in many movies, and there is evidence suggesting that the 1939 film may have contained at least some asbestos. This discovery has drawn significant attention due to its blend of nostalgia and shock value. 2: The idea that a beloved classic like The Wizard of Oz could have been made with toxic materials is a revelation that has left many viewers questioning what else they may not know about their favorite movies. It shows how even the most iconic films can have hidden flaws and ethical concerns.

The Health and Safety Risks Faced by the Cast

Sylvia Shipman, a creator in Brooklyn posting as @celestialsylvia, shared a similar TikTok highlighting other aspects of the production's history. Buddy Ebsen, the original actor playing the Tin Man, almost died after aluminum powder from his makeup coated his lungs. His replacement, Jack Haley, used a safer makeup but still experienced eye infections during filming. Margaret Hamilton, who played the Wicked Witch of the West, endured severe burns during a pyrotechnics mishap. These incidents serve as a reminder of the risks faced by actors during Hollywood's Golden Age. 2: The fact that these actors had to endure such hardships for the sake of their craft is both tragic and eye-opening. It shows the sacrifices that were made in the name of entertainment and how far the industry has come in terms of safety regulations.

The Mistreatment of Judy Garland

Shipman also discussed the mistreatment of Judy Garland, who played Dorothy Gale. During filming, Garland was 16 and faced significant pressure to maintain a youthful appearance. Studio executives forced her to take diet pills and criticized her weight relentlessly, leading to long-term body image struggles. This aspect of the production is one of the darkest and most concerning. 2: Garland's story is a tragic reminder of the unfair standards that women have faced throughout history. It shows how the entertainment industry has often prioritized appearance over the well-being of its performers.Despite the allegations, Shipman still loves the movie and is seeing Wicked on Broadway next week. The viral videos from Shipman and Pahau have sparked online debates, drawing attention to the ethical compromises and health risks of Hollywood's past. 2: These discussions are important as they allow us to evaluate the legacy of classic movies in a more critical light. They also serve as a reminder of the progress that has been made in protecting performers and ensuring the safety of those involved in the entertainment industry.