Lion Costume From The Wizard Of Oz

Ever wondered how the iconic Lion costume from The Wizard of Oz came to life? Let's dive into the roaring tale behind this classic cinematic creation.

From Sketch to Screen

In 1938, MGM's costume designer, Gilbert Adrian, was tasked with bringing L. Frank Baum's timid lion to life. Adrian, known for his work on Gone with the Wind, sketched a costume that was equal parts terrifying and adorable.

The design featured a gold and orange fur suit with a giant, shaggy mane, and a pair of oversized paws that required actor Bert Lahr to walk on his knees. The costume weighed a hefty 60 pounds, but Lahr, known for his comedic roles, brought the perfect blend of courage and comedy to the character.

Crafting the Costume

The costume was constructed by the MGM wardrobe department, led by the legendary costumes supervisor, Molly Hipp. They used real lion fur, which was dyed and sewn onto a canvas base. The mane was made from horsehair, and the eyes were two large, black marbles set into the lion's face.

To create the illusion of movement, the costume was rigged with wires that allowed the mane to sway and the tail to swish. Lahr also wore a set of false teeth that made his roars sound even more convincing.

Legacy and Influence

The Lion costume from The Wizard of Oz has become an icon of cinema history. It's been parodied, referenced, and recreated countless times, from The Simpsons to Glee, and even in Lady Gaga's music video for "Born This Way".

In 2012, the original costume was sold at auction for $3 million, making it one of the most valuable movie props ever sold. Today, it's part of the collection at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles.

Bringing the Magic Home

Fancy channeling your inner Cowardly Lion? Here are some tips to create your own costume for a fraction of the price:

• Start with a warm, comfortable base layer, like a onesie or a long-sleeved shirt and leggings.
• Use fake fur fabric to make a simple mane and tail. You can find this at craft stores or online.
• Create the paws using felt or foam, and attach them to gloves or socks.
• For the face, you can use makeup to create the lion's features, or make a simple mask using cardboard and paint.
• Don't forget the roar! Practice Lahr's iconic growl, or use a sound effect app on your phone.

Remember, the key to a great costume is confidence. So, put on your best roar and strut your stuff!

Reflections on Courage

In the end, the Lion costume from The Wizard of Oz is more than just a clever design. It's a symbol of courage, reminding us that even the scariest challenges can be faced with a little bravery and a lot of heart. So, the next time you're feeling timid, channel your inner Lion and remember, "Courage! What I need is courage!"