This famous musical tale has become far more popular than L. Frank Baum’s previously much-read series featuring the powerful wizard. The film, which combined themes from several of the original books, is a classic Hollywood children’s movie and is considered an integral part of American culture. The orphan Dorothy finds herself in a realm of strange creatures and magic, where she goes on a number of bizarre adventures. These are darker in the books than on the big screen, where idyllic depictions of plot motifs outweigh drama and whose message is one of sentimental humanism. The film, which amazed audiences with its special effects, stage and costume designs, choreography, and catchy tunes, has an irresistible, nostalgic charm today.