#36: The Emerald City Set Was Built with Slippery Flooring
The Emerald City’s shimmering floors looked magical on camera, but they were coated with a glossy surface that became extremely slippery under studio lights. Actors and extras frequently struggled to keep their footing, especially during scenes that required coordinated movement or quick turns. Falls were common, though most resulted in minor injuries.
The issue grew worse when costumes limited visibility or restricted movement. Shoes had to be adjusted, and some scenes were slowed down to prevent accidents. While the sparkling floor added to the film’s iconic look, it also created yet another unexpected hazard for the people bringing Oz to life.
Oz may be magical on screen, but its productions have rarely had an easy journey. When Wicked entered Hollywood’s hands, it met challenges that echoed the chaos of the original film