Hollywood's Enchanted Kingdom Beckons Maud

In 1938, Maud Baum stands resolute outside the gates of M-G-M Studios, determined to ensure the film adaptation of her late husband Frank's book, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," remains true to his vision. As the widow of L. Frank Baum, she feels a profound connection to the story and its characters. Despite initial rebuffs from the studio, Maud's resolve is unwavering, fueled by her mother's teachings on persistence. The studio, a bustling hub of creativity, mirrors the magical world of Oz, and Maud is both awed and nostalgic as she steps into this realm of fantasy.

Maud's Determination to Protect Dorothy

Gaining access to the studio, Maud meets Judy Garland, the young actress cast as Dorothy. Judy's vulnerability and eagerness to please remind Maud of Dorothy's innocence. Struck by Judy's talent, Maud worries about the pressures the young actress faces. Seeing parallels between Judy and Dorothy, both needing protection and guidance, Maud's maternal instincts kick in. She feels a renewed sense of purpose to ensure the film honors the spirit of the book and the character of Dorothy.

A Suffragist's Daughter Faces Challenges

Growing up in a household led by her suffragist mother, Matilda, Maud learns the importance of standing up for one's beliefs. Her childhood is marked by a strong sense of justice and a desire for independence. Maud's early experiences, including a memorable encounter with a scarecrow, shape her into a determined and resilient woman. These formative years instill in her the courage to face the challenges she encounters later in life, both in her personal journey and in her quest to protect Dorothy's legacy.

A Theatrical Romance Begins

During a Christmas visit to her friend Josie's home, Maud meets Frank Baum, a charismatic theater man. Their connection is immediate, and Maud is drawn to Frank's creativity and passion for storytelling. Despite her mother's reservations about Frank's unconventional career, Maud is captivated by his charm and vision. Their romance blossoms, and Maud finds herself torn between her mother's expectations and her own desires. This pivotal moment sets the stage for Maud's future, as she chooses love and adventure over societal norms.

Maud's Journey from Stage to Motherhood

After marrying Frank, Maud joins him on the road with his theater company. Their life is filled with excitement and challenges, but the arrival of their first child prompts a shift in priorities. Maud embraces motherhood, and the couple settles into a more stable life. Despite the end of their theatrical adventures, Maud remains supportive of Frank's dreams. Her journey from the stage to family life reflects her adaptability and resilience, qualities that continue to guide her as she navigates the complexities of Hollywood and her mission to protect Dorothy.

Hollywood's Illusions and Realities

As filming progresses, Maud becomes increasingly aware of the pressures and illusions of Hollywood. She witnesses the challenges Judy faces and the compromises made in the adaptation process. Maud's determination to protect Dorothy is tested, but her encounters with the cast and crew reinforce her commitment. She realizes that while she cannot control everything, her influence and insights can still make a difference. Maud's journey in Hollywood is a testament to her enduring spirit and dedication to preserving the magic of Oz for future generations.

Maud's Healing and Family Struggles

After a difficult recovery from illness, Maud returns home to find her children have grown distant. Her husband, Frank, is supportive but their intimacy is strained due to medical advice against further pregnancies. Frank proposes a move to Dakota for a fresh start, which Maud hesitantly agrees to, hoping for a new beginning despite the uncertainties.

Hollywood's Challenges and Judy's Trials

On the set of "The Wizard of Oz," Judy Garland faces immense pressure, leading to a breakdown during filming. Maud witnesses Judy's vulnerability and steps in to protect her, confronting director Victor Fleming after he slaps Judy. Maud's intervention highlights the harsh realities of Hollywood and her determination to shield Judy from further harm.

Maud's Advocacy and Studio Politics

Maud's advocacy for Judy Garland extends beyond the set as she confronts studio executives about the treatment of the young actress. She also battles to preserve the essence of Frank's story in the film adaptation, navigating the complex studio politics and power dynamics to ensure the film remains true to its source material.

The Rainbow Song's Fate

The studio considers cutting "Over the Rainbow" from the film, but Maud, along with the creative team, argues for its importance. They believe the song captures the heart of the story and Judy's performance is pivotal. Maud's persistence pays off as she convinces Louis B. Mayer to keep the song, ensuring the film's emotional core remains intact.

The Premiere and Maud's Reflections

At the premiere of "The Wizard of Oz," Maud is filled with nostalgia and pride. She reflects on her life's journey, her advocacy for Judy, and the fulfillment of Frank's legacy. The film's success and Judy's performance affirm Maud's efforts, leaving her hopeful for the future and content with her role in preserving the magic of Oz.

Characters

Maud Gage Baum

Maud is the widow of L. Frank Baum and the daughter of a prominent suffragist. Her life is shaped by her mother's activism and her own experiences as a woman navigating societal expectations. Maud is fiercely determined to ensure the film adaptation of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" remains true to her husband's vision. Her encounters with Judy Garland and the Hollywood studio system reveal her deep empathy and resilience. Maud's journey is one of self-discovery and advocacy, as she balances her personal history with her mission to protect Dorothy.

Frank Baum

Frank is a charismatic theater man with a passion for storytelling. His creativity and charm captivate Maud, leading to their marriage and shared adventures in the theater world. Despite the challenges they face, Frank's optimism and imagination remain a guiding force in their lives. His legacy as the author of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" is central to Maud's mission in Hollywood, and his influence is felt throughout her journey to protect Dorothy's story.

Judy Garland

Judy is the young actress cast as Dorothy in the film adaptation of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." Her talent and eagerness to please are evident, but she faces immense pressure from the studio and her demanding mother. Maud sees parallels between Judy and Dorothy, both needing protection and guidance. Judy's vulnerability and resilience endear her to Maud, who becomes a maternal figure and advocate for the young actress.

Matilda Joslyn Gage

Matilda is a prominent suffragist whose activism shapes Maud's upbringing. Her teachings on persistence and justice influence Maud's determination to protect Dorothy's legacy. Matilda's expectations for Maud's education and independence create tension, but her unwavering support ultimately empowers Maud to pursue her own path. Matilda's legacy is a guiding force in Maud's life, informing her understanding of courage and advocacy.

Louis B. Mayer

Mayer is the head of M-G-M Studios, overseeing the film adaptation of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." His dismissive attitude toward Maud's insights reflects the challenges she faces in Hollywood. Despite his authority, Maud remains determined to influence the film's direction. Mayer's interactions with Maud highlight the power dynamics and pressures within the studio system, underscoring Maud's resilience and advocacy.

Ray Bolger

Bolger is cast as the Scarecrow in the film adaptation. His charm and humor make him a natural fit for the role, and Maud sees him as a potential ally in protecting Judy. Bolger's dedication to his character and his genuine kindness endear him to Maud, who hopes he will look out for Judy on set. His presence reinforces the importance of camaraderie and support within the cast.

Noel Langley

Langley is one of the scriptwriters for the film adaptation. His interactions with Maud reveal the challenges of adapting a beloved story for the screen. Despite his initial reluctance to share the script, Langley's openness to Maud's insights suggests a potential ally in her mission. His role highlights the complexities of storytelling and the balance between creative vision and studio pressures.

Ethel Gumm

Ethel is Judy's mother, whose strict oversight and high expectations add to the young actress's pressures. Her presence on set underscores the challenges Judy faces, both personally and professionally. Ethel's interactions with Maud reveal the complexities of mother-daughter relationships and the impact of parental influence on a child's career.

Jack Haley

Haley replaces Buddy Ebsen as the Tin Man in the film adaptation. His friendly demeanor and humor make him a likable presence on set. Maud's interactions with Haley highlight the camaraderie among the cast and the challenges of working within the constraints of Hollywood's demands. His role emphasizes the importance of teamwork and support in bringing the story to life.

Mervyn LeRoy

LeRoy is the producer overseeing the film adaptation of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." His enthusiasm for the project and commitment to its success are evident in his interactions with Maud. Despite the challenges of adapting a beloved story, LeRoy's vision and dedication inspire confidence in the film's potential. His role underscores the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the importance of creative leadership.

Plot Devices

Hollywood's Enchanted Kingdom

The M-G-M Studios serve as a metaphorical enchanted kingdom, mirroring the magical world of Oz. This setting highlights the contrast between the fantasy of filmmaking and the realities of Hollywood's pressures. The studio's bustling creativity and illusionary nature underscore Maud's mission to protect Dorothy's story, emphasizing the tension between artistic vision and commercial demands.

Maternal Instincts and Advocacy

Maud's interactions with Judy Garland reveal her maternal instincts and advocacy for the young actress. This plot device underscores the parallels between Judy and Dorothy, both needing guidance and protection. Maud's role as a maternal figure highlights the importance of empathy and support in navigating the challenges of Hollywood, reinforcing her mission to preserve the spirit of Dorothy's character.

Societal Expectations and Personal Growth

Maud's experiences at Cornell and her upbringing by a suffragist mother highlight the tension between societal expectations and personal growth. This plot device explores themes of independence, identity, and the pursuit of one's passions. Maud's journey reflects the challenges of balancing tradition and progress, informing her understanding of Dorothy's journey in Oz and her own mission in Hollywood.

Theatrical Romance and Adventure

The romance between Maud and Frank Baum serves as a central plot device, highlighting themes of love, adventure, and creativity. Their shared passion for storytelling and theater underscores the importance of following one's heart and dreams. This device emphasizes the transformative power of love and the impact of personal relationships on Maud's journey to protect Dorothy's legacy.

Illusions and Realities of Hollywood

The film adaptation process serves as a plot device to explore the illusions and realities of Hollywood. Maud's encounters with the studio system, cast, and crew reveal the complexities of storytelling and the balance between creative vision and commercial pressures. This device underscores the challenges of preserving the magic of Oz while navigating the demands of filmmaking, reinforcing Maud's determination to protect Dorothy's story.

The Rainbow Song

The song "Over the Rainbow" serves as a central plot device, symbolizing hope and perseverance. Its inclusion in the film is a testament to Maud's advocacy and the emotional core of the story. The song's journey from potential cut to iconic status highlights the power of belief and the impact of creative expression.

Analysis

"Finding Dorothy" by Elizabeth Letts is a poignant exploration of advocacy, legacy, and the power of storytelling. Through Maud Gage Baum's journey, the novel delves into themes of resilience, maternal instincts, and the struggle to preserve artistic integrity amidst commercial pressures. Maud's determination to protect the essence of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" and her advocacy for Judy Garland highlight the importance of empathy and support in a world driven by profit and power. The novel also reflects on societal expectations and personal growth, as Maud navigates her own identity and the legacy of her suffragist mother. Ultimately, "Finding Dorothy" is a tribute to the enduring magic of Oz and the transformative power of love, creativity, and perseverance.

Last updated: February 17, 2025