'The Wizard of Oz': 10 facts about the classic movie

Writers Jay Scarfone and William Stillman look back at the making of the iconic 1939 film 'Wizard of Oz' in their book 'The Wizard of Oz: The Official 75th Anniversary Companion.' Here are some stories from the production.

7. Wartime morale

"Wizard" was released in California in August 1939 after being screened for previews in other areas. Germany invaded Poland on Sept. 1 of that year and "Wizard" played an unexpected part in the conflict to come when it was discovered that the Australian Imperial Force sang "We're Off to See the Wizard" during the Battle of Bardia, among other conflicts. (The movie had been screened in Australia during the winter of 1939.)

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