Was The Wizard of Oz a box office hit in 1939?

No, The Wizard of Oz initially struggled at the box office upon its 1939 release.

When did The Wizard of Oz become a hit movie?

The Wizard of Oz became a hit after MGM re-released it in 1949, where it achieved significant financial success.

What elements from The Wizard of Oz are still popular?

Iconic songs like 'Over the Rainbow,' famous quotes, and the term 'munchkin' remain popular cultural references.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Oz's Slow Start: From Flop to Cultural Phenomenon

Oz's Slow Start: From Flop to Cultural Phenomenon

23 Nov, 2025

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Summary

The Wizard of Oz initially struggled at the box office upon its 1939 release.
MGM's 1949 re-release finally turned the film into a major financial success.
The film's iconic elements remain deeply embedded in popular culture.

Oz's Slow Start: From Flop to Cultural Phenomenon

When The Wizard of Oz premiered in 1939, audiences did not immediately embrace the cinematic marvel. Starring Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale, the MGM production was nominated for five Oscars but only earned approximately $3 million against a $2.7 million cost, failing to be an initial box office smash.

However, MGM demonstrated the brains, heart, and courage to re-release the film in 1949. This subsequent release proved to be a turning point, generating $26 million and finally establishing the movie as the beloved classic it is today.

The film's elements have since become deeply ingrained in popular culture. From the timeless song "Over the Rainbow" and countless quotable lines to the common usage of "munchkin" for small children, The Wizard of Oz's impact continues to resonate.

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