By Renee’ Collins
Rating: 4 (Out of 5 Reels)
This documentary chronicles the life of the ruby slippers after filming The Wizard of Oz one of the most popular films of all time. Turns out they were boxed up, stored on the back lot and found decades later by prop master Kent Warner. Interestingly enough the ruby slippers were the beginning of the Hollywood memorabilia trade. The exact number of slippers made is not known because Warner would not tell anyone how many pairs he found which has adds to their mystique.
This film is well-made and I am sure interviewing the quirky characters involved was not an easy task due to the egos involved. Despite this the interviews are expertly woven together and take the viewer through the story the slippers can tell. Currently there are three known pairs of the slippers. One pair is on permanent display at the Smithsonian museum in Washington. The second pair is owned by Debbie Reynolds. And, the third pair was stolen from a museum and has never been seen since.
Some people, including this critic, just don’t understand the draw people have to items used in a film nor how much money they are willing pay to possess them. This film is truly fascinating and fans of The Wizard of Oz will find it extremely interesting.