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Sphere Entertainment wants audiences to experience the original Wizard of Oz in a way that never would have been dreamed of in 1939, when the classic musical fantasy was first released. At that time, the sudden transition from black-and-white to Technicolor wowed audiences. Now, the Sphere will add digital enhancements and a wrap-around audiovisual presentation on a scale no other entertainment venue can provide.
This will be the first time Sphere has dipped into the world of 20th-century cinema to put this kind of futuristic twist on a silver screen classic.
The Wizard of Oz will come to life on the Sphere’s 160,000-square-foot screen inside the 17,600-seat auditorium. The first screening is set for August 28, 2025. The film will be screened with 4D physical effects, and AI technology will be used to enhance the visuals. Not to mention this creation is born out of a collaboration between Google, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Magnopus, blending technology with the original’s timeless appeal.
What should film enthusiasts know about Wizard of Oz?
With two Oscars and a 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Wizard of Oz undoubtedly has a large fan base eagerly awaiting its premiere.
This timeless classic is about a young girl named Dorothy Gale and her dog Toto. The two are swept away by a tornado from Kansas to the magical Land of Oz. On their journey, they meet three new friends. They are a Scarecrow, a Tin Man, and a Cowardly Lion, each with their desires. Together, they face obstacles, including the Wicked Witch of the West, and discover the power to overcome challenges. A story of friendship, perseverance, and finding one’s way home, The Wizard of Oz has captivated audiences for generations with its memorable characters and iconic songs.
The Wizard of Oz is joining a roster of events at the Sphere. It has already hosted big concerts from The Eagles and U2, high-energy matches like UFC 306, and renowned events like the 2024 NHL Entry Draft on the schedule. The venue is proving its versatility.
Not to mention, Sphere Studios is working on a new documentary, “From Edge.” It features extreme athletes like Alex Honnold and Katie Hansen Lejeunesse. The documentary is set to premiere in 2026.
Wizard of Oz in the gaming sphere
The Wizard of Oz has also made its way into the gaming world. Zynga’s The Wizard of Oz Slots Game has become a popular choice among players. This free-to-play, Vegas-style casino slot machine game lets you relive the classic movie. Users play with iconic characters like Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion.
With features like free coins and credits, dual-reel slot machines, mini-games, and bonus rounds, this game offers a promising experience for fans of the movie and slot enthusiasts alike.
And BetMGM and Borgata are no stranger to The Wizard of Oz. Both recently were crowned the exclusive home of Wizard of Oz iGaming slots.
The deal came with the latest installment of “Wizard of Oz—Over the Rainbow” for online BetMGM Online Casino and Borgata Casino.
With its five reels and 45 paylines, there’s a potential for big wins and the 96.2% RTP. As usual, there are also bonus features and jackpots too.
