Fleming’s 1939 American film The Wizard of Oz is an early pioneer of the use of innovative techniques in camera work, music, visual and special effects in modern day movie production.  The musical-fantasy classic has also become a firm favorite among the American public and coupled with its influence in the film industry, it should be regarded as the most significant American film of all time.

It appears that the classic American film The Wizard of Oz is not a direct adaption of the literary works of Oz creator L. Frank Baum. While it is true that audiences have fallen in love with Fleming’s interpretation of the literature, it is noteworthy that there have been numerous alterations. Entire scenes have either been changed or completely ignored and the film also rearranges selected elements from numerous Oz books in order to facilitate movie production. Nevertheless, there is no questioning the fact that Baum has left an indelible impression upon the entertainment world. From books to plays to films, cartoons and comics, it is easy to see that his creations have gradually infiltrated and strengthened the bloodstream of American culture.

Tysad Koupla, Nancy. "Critique on Before the Rainbow." Children's Literature Association Quarterly.
(30 April 2006). Muse.jhu.edu, 1 Dec. 2008.