Whitley Heights - Home to Rudolph Valentino - Gateway to Hollywood History - Whitley Heights Resident Judy Garland On The Big Screen

Legendary screen star Judy Garland, a resident of historic Whitley Heights, was once again on the big screen in her treasured classic The Wizard of Oz. This was truly a one-of-a-kind chance to see Judy in a celebrated movie theater setting, bigger than life.

This Warner Brothers classic also features the talents of another well-known Whitley Heights resident, who is not often recognized, but well-represented in Hollywood's classic films.

And who is this 'other' Whitley Heights resident?

The Wizard of Oz also featured the immense design talents of Adrian who was costume designer for this favorite motion picture classic. Known for his fashionable sense of style and trend-setting design, Adrian is considered by most as Hollywood's greatest costume designer. In fact, he was first hired in Hollywood by Natacha Rambova to assist her husband, none other than Rudolph Valentino, with his last films.

The 1939 motion picture, directed by Victor Fleming, was presented at the American Cinematheque's Aero Theater on Saturday, July 22 - at 3:00 PM.

Judy Garland truly is Dorothy in this sublime, candy-colored adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s children’s favorite, one of the most beloved film classics of all time. Take a surreal stroll down the yellow brick road with Dorothy as she encounters the Tin Man (Jack Haley), the Scarecrow (Ray Bolger), the Cowardly Lion (Bert Lahr), Glinda, the Good Witch (Billie Burke) and the frightfully demonic Wicked Witch Of The West (Margaret Hamilton). With the amazing Frank Morgan doing multiple duties in a variety of roles, including the Wizard.

Featuring of course, "Over The Rainbow", an Oscar winner, The Wizard of Oz is loaded with lots of surprises and lively fun. Watch out for the Flying Monkeys!

For 24 Hour information, call (323) 466-3456. The film was presented at the newly re-opened and renovated Aero Theater at 1328 Montana Avenue, in Santa Monica. The Aero is a theater of the American Cinematheque, who's Egyptian Theater in the heart of Hollywood celebrates many of Whitley Height's historic stars through their classic film presentations throughout the year.

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