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'The Wizard of Oz': How a Legendary Film Launched a Teenage Girl’s Iconic Career

Global Look Press — still from the movie 'The Wizard of Oz' (1939)

Judy Garland became an overnight star after the movie premiere.

The Wizard of Oz (1939) remains one of the most beloved films in cinematic history, enchanting audiences for generations with its magical story, vibrant visuals, and unforgettable music. The movie, adapted from L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, features Judy Garland in her iconic role as Dorothy. Garland was handpicked from a large cast of young actresses, with her performance becoming legendary.

How Old Was Judy Garland?

Judy Garland was just 16 years old when she portrayed Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz. Despite her youth, she captured the hearts of millions with her emotive acting and powerful voice, turning the character into an unforgettable part of film history.

Plot Overview

The story follows Dorothy, a young girl from Kansas, who is swept away by a tornado to the magical land of Oz. With the help of new friends — the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion — she embarks on a journey to meet the Wizard and find a way back home.

Legion-Media — still from the movie 'The Wizard of Oz' (1939)

Not the First Movie Adaptation

While The Wizard of Oz (1939) is the most famous adaptation, it wasn’t the first. A silent film version was made in 1925, but it was the 1939 film that became the definitive and most widely recognized adaptation of L. Frank Baum's beloved book.

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