Making of the Wizard of Oz, The : Book Review

"The Making of the Wizard of Oz" by Aljean Harmetz offers a captivating and insightful look into the creation of one of the most beloved movies of all time. This book takes readers on a journey through the entire production process, from adapting L. Frank Baum's novel to the film's enduring legacy.

Harmetz's attention to detail and extensive research make this book a valuable resource for both film enthusiasts and fans of the classic movie. She skillfully combines interviews, production diaries, and archival materials to provide readers with a fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpse into the challenges and triumphs faced in bringing "The Wizard of Oz" to life.

One of the book's highlights is Harmetz's comprehensive analysis of the technological advancements and creative decisions that shaped the film. She explores the development of Technicolor and the casting choices that led to the unforgettable performances from the cast. Through her engaging storytelling, Harmetz captures the time period, the personalities involved, and the intricate dynamics between the cast and crew.

What sets "The Making of the Wizard of Oz" apart is Harmetz's exploration of the cultural and historical context surrounding the film's production. She delves into the impact of the Great Depression on Hollywood and how "The Wizard of Oz" served as a colorful and fantastical escape for audiences facing challenging times. Harmetz also highlights the important contributions of women in the industry, shedding light on figures like producer Mervyn LeRoy and costume designer Adrian.

Harmetz's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the book enjoyable for both film aficionados and casual readers. She seamlessly blends storytelling with informative analysis, providing readers with a well-rounded understanding of the film's creation and lasting impact on popular culture.

What are readers saying?

Aljean Harmetz's book, "The Making of the Wizard of Oz", has garnered a range of reviews from readers. The book offers an in-depth exploration of the iconic film, delving into behind-the-scenes stories and production details. Some readers praised the author for her extensive research and attention to detail. They appreciated the wealth of information provided, including interviews with key cast and crew members. These readers found the book to be a fascinating look into the challenges and triumphs faced during the production of "The Wizard of Oz." Harmetz was commended for her thoroughness and the book was highly regarded for its insights into the film's enduring legacy.

However, other readers were critical of the book's writing style, considering it dry and lacking in engaging storytelling. Many felt that Harmetz's academic and dense writing made it difficult to stay engaged with the material. Some readers also mentioned that the organization of the book appeared disjointed at times, making it challenging to follow the chronological progression of the film's production.

In addition to the writing style, some readers expressed disappointment with the lack of new or groundbreaking information in the book. They felt that much of the material had already been extensively covered in previous works on the subject. These individuals were hoping for fresh insights or previously unexplored behind-the-scenes anecdotes.

Despite the mixed reviews, Aljean Harmetz's book has its strengths, especially in its thorough research and inclusion of interviews. However, it may not be suitable for those seeking a more engaging narrative or new information. Readers with a keen interest in the history of "The Wizard of Oz" may find value in this book, while those looking for a different perspective may want to explore alternative sources.