Dorothy (Judy Garland) was right about one thing: there really is no place like home. MGM's studio film about a young farm girl from Kansas who gets swept up in a tornado and taken to a magical land has become a timeless classic since it first wowed audiences with its wholesome story (and innovative color film technology) in 1939. You may or may not know this, but The Wizard of Oz actually wasn't the smash hit that you might think it was when it debuted (more on that later). Despite its slow start, the movie gained a second life after being shown on television, and has since continued to delight audiences for generations.



With its lovable characters, memorable songs, and sweet message, Frank L. Baum's fantasy stands the test of time. Plus, without The Wizard of Oz, we wouldn't have the fantastic soundtrack from Wicked! In honor of the film's 80th anniversary this year, we've found some of the most magical (and weird!) details about The Wizard of Oz. See how well you know what went on behind the curtain.