In 1900, L. Frank Baum’s book The Wonderful Wizard of Oz was so admired that it produced thirteen sequels, numerous stage versions, and five films before MGM made the timeless The Wizard of Oz in 1939.
In 1939, America was digging itself out of a hole known as The Great Depression, which consisted of ten years of mass unemployment, poverty, struggle, hunger, death and so on. By the end of the 30’s, America started to see the light again. However, 1939 is also known as the beginning of World War II. Going to the cinema was the escape from reality the people needed. Those who could spare an extra 25 cents got dressed in their best clothes and enjoy their film of choice. 1939 is also understood by many to be one of the greatest years for film, for there were many outstanding premieres that year–also known as the golden era of Hollywood.
The important thing to understand about films at this time is that they came and went. There were no television networks to later to re-watch on, no DVD’s or Blockbuster allowing you to enjoy the film on repeat, nor were there any streaming cites where you had the instant gratification to watch whatever you wanted whenever you wanted. However, when The Wizard of Oz came to the big screen on August 25th 1939, the impact it had on not only the people, but film in general was everlasting. The film has kept up with the times of new technology, resurfacing on all new mediums.
Known as one of the most influential films o
f all time, The Wizard of Oz was iconic thanks to Technicolor, the portrayal of girl power, the music, the fantastical reality, and the infamous characters.
To start, technology, such as Technicolor, has enhanced and shaped the look of the twentieth century. Most films in the 1930’s were shown in black and white or sepia. Adrienne Lafrance explains that Technicolor was incorporated in 1915, however goes on to say it wasn’t until after World War II that full-color films began to be accepted by audiences as more than just a passing fad. During the 20’s and 30’s, Technicolor was still experimental, and the audience had mixed reviews.
While The Wizard of Oz was not the first color film, it was one of the most successfully accepted Technicolor films of its time. Dorothy’s home in the beginning of the film was shown in sepia, whereas the fantasy world was shown in color to give the film a 
powerful affect. Technicolor allowed for vivid representation of the yellow brick road and the ruby red slippers, which are iconic symbols that became universally known. For one example, the film’s yellow brick road has reappeared in many contexts, including the cover of Elton John’s album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.
In addition, women did not get the right to vote until 1919. The twentieth century was crucial for the progression of women’s equality in America. By the time of the film release of The Wizard of Oz, women were still fighting for similar roles as men in society. 
The film is known to be light years before its time because not only was the main character a women, but it also lacked a male hero, which was basically expected in every film ever. Dorothy, Glinda, The Wicked Witch of the West—everyone who obtained any sort of power—was female. Throwing a wrench in the expected gender roles helped The Wizard of Oz become more iconic than it already was.
The film also dabbled with the portrayal of fantastical elements, which essentially paved the way for movies like “Lord of the Rings” and “Star Wars”. But what about The 
Wizard of Oz‘s influence outside of film? Lets talk about Halloween. Tens of thousands of children dress up as characters from The Wizard of Oz. The most unique influence when it comes to costumes is the perception of what a witch looks like. The common idea that a witch has green skin, a large nose, a big black hat, etc., all stems from the makeup and costume worn by the Wicked Witch of the West.
The film of The Wizard of Oz has impacted the industry since it premiered in cinema several decades ago. The film has endured such longevity and popularity with all generations, for endless and unquestionable reasons.
OTHER IMPACTS AND INFLUENCES NOT MENTIONED:
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