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Hollywood’s crowning achievement is its greatest enigma.
Explore the magic, music, and myths surrounding the making of The Wizard of Oz in celebration of its 85th Anniversary. This fast-paced documentary series takes audiences over the rainbow and down the yellow brick road to answer 85 fascinating questions about the iconic film. Mysteries of Oz: 85 Questions Answered reveals newly discovered truths, debunks age-old myths, and dispels many misconceptions about the motion picture that the Library of Congress calls the most-watched movie ever.
Dive deep into the enchanting world of Oz with expert and insider interviews, rare images capturing moments both on and off the set, and behind-the-scenes footage offering a fresh perspective on the beloved classic. Each episode explores the lore and legacy of The Wizard of Oz, shedding light on casting choices, special effects, and the film’s cultural impact and enduring popularity. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to Oz, this series entertains, educates, and enchants, uncovering the untold stories and fascinating details that have made The Wizard of Oz a timeless masterpiece.
Official Website: www.mysteriesofoz.com
Check out The Judy Room’s Extensive Spotlight on The Wizard of Oz here.
FILMMAKER’S STATEMENT
As a lifelong fan of The Wizard of Oz, I’ve always been captivated by the myriad mysteries and myths that surround the making of this beloved film. Growing up, I eagerly awaited the annual telecast of the movie, a cherished tradition that fueled my fascination with the magical land of Oz. But my passion extended beyond the screen, and I became a card-carrying member of the International Wizard of Oz Club as a kid, immersing myself in the community of fellow enthusiasts. I even convinced my parents to take me to various conventions and festivals dedicated to Oz.
Mysteries of Oz: 85 Questions Answered is a three-part documentary series born from this lifelong passion and curiosity. This project delves deep into the untold stories, behind-the-scenes secrets, and enduring enigmas that have intrigued fans for decades. From exploring the mysterious casting decisions to uncovering the truth behind legendary on-set incidents, this series leaves no stone unturned. Through extensive research and interviews with experts and insiders, we aim to illuminate the fascinating and often surprising truths behind the magic of Oz. This documentary celebrates the legacy of a film that continues to enchant audiences around the world, inviting viewers to rediscover the wonder and mystery of The Wizard of Oz
– Randy Schmidt
BRAD OSBORNE – DIRECTOR
Brad Osborne is an award-winning writer, director, and editor who has helmed numerous television documentaries, including M*A*S*H: When Television Changed Forever, Tom Petty: Won’t Back Down, and the series The Price of Fame.
Like many Oz fans, Brad began his love affair with the film as a child as his family gathered around the television for the annual broadcast. “To this day, I simply cannot take my eyes off the movie. It is a
spectacle of creativity, wonder, and magic that has simply never been matched in cinema.”
ANDY STREITFELD – EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Andy Streitfeld founded AMS Pictures four decades ago. In that time, he has executive produced over 50 documentaries, including, most recently, Karen Carpenter: Starving for Perfection, a captivating documentary providing astounding new insight into the singer’s tragically short life and enduring musical legacy.
Andy’s first exposure to The Wizard of Oz was watching the yearly movie on his family’s small black and white TV. He was terrified by the winged monkeys and the Wicked Witch! Since those early days, Andy has come to love all aspects of Oz: the original L. Frank Baum books, the 1939 movie, and the musicals Wicked and The Wiz. “I’m so excited to be able to executive produce this documentary – and get involved with all the mysteries, myths, and great stories from Oz.”
RANDY SCHMIDT – WRITER/PRODUCER
Randy L. Schmidt is the author of the acclaimed bestselling biography Little Girl Blue: The Life of Karen Carpenter and the editor of Judy Garland on Judy Garland: Interviews and Encounters and Yesterday Once More: The Carpenters Reader. He has also contributed articles to The Advocate and The Observer.
As a child, Randy was a card-carrying member of the International Wizard of Oz Club and remains a lifelong Oz enthusiast. He teaches music in Denton, Texas, where he continues to share his passion for music and its history.
Official Website: www.mysteriesofoz.com
Check out The Judy Room’s Extensive Spotlight on The Wizard of Oz here.
I am so excited for this! At 51yo, I as well am a life long WOZ fanatic!
Looking forward to this documentary. The movie is definitely Unforgettable. And of course the Great Judy Garland at sweet 16 years like a blossoming flower!
It’s now available to watch:
https://mysteriesofoz.com/