Watch The Secret of Oz

The Secret of Oz is a documentary film released in 2009 that aims to unravel the mystery surrounding L. Frank Baum's timeless classic, The Wizard of Oz. Directed by William T. Still and featuring insightful interviews with renowned experts, the film provides a critical analysis of the underlying symbolism present in the popular children's book and the 1939 movie adaptation.

The film begins by exploring the historical context in which the book was written. It delves into how Baum, a former businessman, and journalist, drew inspiration from the political and social upheavals of his time. The documentary argues that The Wizard of Oz was more than just a children's story; it was a cleverly disguised allegory for the American political economy during the late 19th century.

Through an engaging mix of archival footage, expert interviews, and reenactments, The Secret of Oz takes viewers on a journey of discovery. The film explores the parallels between the events of the time and the characters and events in the classic tale. It traces the yellow brick road, the cowardly lion, the scarecrow, and the tin man's journey back to Kansas, uncovering their symbolic meaning as part of Baum's political commentary.

The Secret of Oz also delves into the context of the time, including the protracted debate on the monetary system. During this period, the U.S. adopted the gold standard, which meant that the government would redeem paper currency for its equivalent value in gold. Many, including Baum, believed this was a regressive policy that only benefited the wealthy. The film posits that the movie was a way of retelling the story of the silver movement, where farmers and workers fought to maintain their economic security.

What makes The Secret of Oz particularly fascinating is its analysis of the character of the wizard, who maintains his power through illusion and deception, drawing curious parallels with the monetary system of the time. The documentary suggests that Baum, like many of his contemporaries, believed that the banking system, just like the wizard, used tricks to maintain its hold on the public's wealth.

One of the strengths of The Secret of Oz is the access it provides to experts to gain more in-depth knowledge about the subject. The film features interviews with iconic figures such as economist Paul Craig Roberts and Ellen Brown, inspiring author of The Web of Debt. These experts provide a clear and concise account of the economic disorder during Baum's lifetime and explain how the policies of the time influenced the themes in the story.

In conclusion, The Secret of Oz is a thought-provoking and informative documentary that uncovers the subversive political message at the heart of one of the most beloved children's books of all time. Through its authoritative analysis of the symbolism present in the story, the film reveals a hidden meaning that is as relevant today as it was in Baum's time. From its engaging narrative to its stunning imagery, The Secret of Oz is a must-watch film for anyone interested in understanding how politics can be communicated through art.