Excitement is in the air for collectors and fans of vintage cinema as a pair of Judy Garland’s iconic ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz is up for auction. These legendary shoes, with bids already exceeding $800,000, are among only four pairs believed to have survived since the film’s release in 1939. The upcoming release of the film Wicked is adding extra buzz to this auction, bringing even more attention to the dazzling slippers.
The story behind these ruby slippers is quite intriguing. They were stolen from the Judy Garland Museum back in 2005 by Terry Jon Martin, who hoped to sell them for their ruby stones, not realizing they were adorned with glass instead. After years of being lost, the FBI managed to recover them, bringing them back into the spotlight. Martin has since been charged and pled guilty to theft of major artwork, a far cry from the glamorous history of these iconic shoes.
These ruby slippers, lined with white leather and covered in hand-sequined silk georgette, hold immense historical significance. They were prominently featured in unforgettable scenes from The Wizard of Oz, including the moment when Dorothy clicks her heels three times and utters those famous words, “There’s no place like home.” The careful preservation of the slippers has maintained their distinct dark red hue, showcasing their vibrancy and iconic status on screen.
Interestingly, the original book described Dorothy’s magical shoes as silver, but they were changed to red for the film adaptation to maximize the use of Technicolor. With the upcoming release of Wicked, the storyline revolving around the ruby slippers is set to captivate audiences once again. The film promises to offer a fresh perspective on the classic characters, including Dorothy, with teasers hinting at a return to the silver slippers from the original book.
The auction of these ruby slippers goes beyond a mere financial transaction; it embodies nostalgia and cultural significance tied to the world of cinema. These iconic props are more than just shoes; they represent cherished childhood memories and a piece of film history that resonates across generations. As collectors and fans eagerly await the outcome of the auction, the allure of owning a piece of Hollywood magic is palpable.
As Wicked approaches its release date and ticket sales soar, the journey of the ruby slippers is far from over. Will they find a new home with a passionate collector, or will they continue to captivate audiences in different settings? Only time and the highest bidder will reveal the next chapter in the story of these enchanting shoes. So, stay tuned for more updates on the fate of these iconic ruby slippers and their magical journey through the world of cinema.