The Blue Bird

One of the film industries "urban legends" is that "The Wizard of Oz" was a flop on release. This is simply not the case. While it did not immediately become the "icon" that "Gone With the Wind" quickly blossomed into, it was a success. Crowds swarmed to its roadshow engagements. However, its budget was huge by 1939 standards (over $2.5 million), and it didn't make as much money as smaller pictures would have - obviously. "The Blue Bird" was 20th's response, and IT indeed was a flop. Unlike "Oz," numerous television showings have not endeared it to new audiences over the years, and it has largely been forgotten, as has been the bloated Russian/American bizarre remake from the 70s.

Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland toured the large cities with an "Oz" roadshow during its initial run, and the houses were packed - EVERYWHERE. Again, the word "flop" is simply not applicable to MGM's film. Keep in mind that movies cost about 10 - 25 cents in 1939, and "Oz"'s budget is equivalent to roughly $250 million in 2004.

I would guess that "The Blue Bird" also required a massive budget, from the looks of it. But people were NOT lined up around the block for that one.

"BB" is worth a look, if only to see how NOT to make a lavish musical for a studio cash cow.

(Oh my, I'm not useful. 2005)