AI expands “Wizard of Oz” for Sphere’s 160K-square-foot immersive experience

The Sphere in Las Vegas is preparing to debut an AI-enhanced version of “The Wizard of Oz” that expands the 1939 classic to fit its massive 160,000-square-foot screen. The production promises a full sensory experience with remastered audio, added characters, and environmental effects like wind machines, sparking debate about using AI to modify cinematic classics.

What you should know: The Sphere team used AI trained specifically on “The Wizard of Oz” footage and original materials to create this expanded version.
• The team combed through archives at the Academy and Warner Bros., studying shot lists, sketches, and notebooks from the 1939 original to guide their work.
• Producer Jane Rosenthal emphasizes they’re using “ethical models” trained on the original film with permission from rights holders.
• The production adds characters to existing scenes, including Uncle Henry in previously unseen moments.

The sensory experience: Sphere’s technology transforms the viewing into an immersive environment that engages multiple senses.
• Giant wind machines will simulate tornado conditions for audiences during Dorothy’s journey.
• The venue’s 167,000 speakers will create surround sound effects, such as booming sounds that ricochet around the space when Dorothy taps the Tin Man’s heart.
• “The whole idea of it is you’re not passively watching — you are actively feeling like you’re in it,” says Carolyn Blackwood, head of Sphere Studios.

Audio restoration breakthrough: The team rerecorded Judy Garland’s iconic “Over the Rainbow” performance using the original MGM soundstage.
• Recording took place on the same MGM lot and soundstage where the original music was captured.
• By splitting the original tracks, audiences can now hear Garland’s voice in unprecedented clarity while maintaining its authenticity.
• “It’s still her voice, but you’re hearing it pure,” Rosenthal explains.

What they’re saying: Industry professionals defend the AI integration while acknowledging controversy among film purists.
• “It’s pushing the visual medium,” says producer Jane Rosenthal. “It’s pushing the exhibition of shows and concerts in a way that’s singular, and it’s exhilarating.”
• Rosenthal addresses AI criticism: “AI in the film industry has been used for many years. It’s been used on ‘Jurassic Park,’ ‘Avatar,’ ‘Benjamin Button.'”
• “Some of the things we did were just organic and authentic to what the original filmmaker’s intent was,” notes Jennifer Koester, Sphere’s president and COO.

Why this matters: The project represents a test case for how AI can enhance classic entertainment while respecting original artistic intent, potentially setting precedents for future film restoration and expansion projects. The August 28 premiere will demonstrate whether immersive technology can introduce new audiences to classic stories without alienating traditional fans.