#45: Filming Was Literally Too Hot to Handle

The set of the 1939 Wizard of Oz was not just magical but sweltering, with temperatures reaching nearly 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The surprising reason behind this heat wave was the pioneering use of Technicolor. To achieve the vibrant color palette, the lighting for the color scenes had to be exceptionally bright, necessitating the use of intense arc lights.

While these lights were essential for the film’s visual brilliance, they created a sizzling atmosphere that tested the endurance of the cast and crew. The discomfort was further exacerbated by the close quarters on set, especially for those unfortunate enough to work near colleagues who opted to forgo deodorant or perfume, making the production of this cinematic classic a truly memorable, albeit sweat-inducing, endeavor.