#10: The Snow Was Made from a Hazardous Material

In a striking testament to the era’s filmmaking techniques, the 1939 production of the film used chrysotile asbestos fibers to create the snowfall in certain scenes. At the time, the hazards associated with asbestos were not widely recognized, and it was utilized for its unique ability to mimic the appearance of glistening snowflakes.

Unfortunately, we now understand the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, making this choice in production a startling reminder of the different standards and awareness prevalent in the past. While the visual effect was undoubtedly enchanting, the knowledge of the potential danger posed by asbestos today serves as a reflection on the evolution of safety standards and the importance of protecting the health of both actors and crew members in the film industry.