Las Vegas Gets a Magical Update of 'The Wizard of Oz' with AI and Immersive Tech

An immersive, AI-enhanced version of "The Wizard of Oz" premiered in Las Vegas, featuring swirling winds, drone-operated monkeys, and restored celluloid frames in high definition. The Sphere Entertainment CEO called it "experiential storytelling in this new media," while critics debate the use of AI in Hollywood. The two-year project involved 2,000 people and proponents see it as a potential watershed moment in Hollywood's use of AI tools.

An immersive, AI-enhanced version of "The Wizard of Oz" has premiered in Las Vegas, marking a significant milestone in experiential storytelling. The event, held at the Sphere Entertainment venue, featured swirling winds, drone-operated monkeys, and restored celluloid frames in high definition, providing attendees with an unprecedented cinematic experience [1].

The two-year project, involving over 2,000 people, has been hailed as a potential watershed moment in Hollywood's use of AI tools. Sphere Entertainment CEO James Dolan described the experience as "experiential storytelling in this new media," emphasizing the film's ability to make viewers feel part of the story [1].

The AI technology used in the adaptation was developed in collaboration with Google's DeepMind and Warner Bros. Discovery executives. The AI restored tiny celluloid frames into high definition and filled in details such as freckles on Dorothy's face, while also enhancing the overall visual experience [1].

The Sphere Entertainment venue added off-screen elements such as fans that kicked up wind and blew leaf-shaped confetti during the tornado scene, and helium-filled monkeys that flew overhead as the Wicked Witch plotted Dorothy's demise. These immersive elements were made possible by extensive work involving over 1,000 artists and a significant budget that exceeded $100 million [2].

However, the use of AI in reimagining this Hollywood classic has not been without controversy. Critics have raised concerns about the ethical implications of using such technology on a beloved film. Sphere Entertainment has addressed these concerns by staying in touch with the descendants of the original cast and crew and ensuring proper licensing of all materials [2].

The project's impact extends beyond the initial screening. Sphere Entertainment Co. plans to screen the AI-enhanced version of "The Wizard of Oz" at Sphere venues worldwide over the next decade, indicating a long-term commitment to this innovative approach to classic cinema [2].

As the curtain rises on this technologically advanced adaptation, it remains to be seen how audiences will react to the blend of nostalgia and cutting-edge AI enhancements. The project not only pushes the boundaries of cinema technology but also ignites important discussions about the role of AI in preserving and reimagining cultural treasures [2].

References:
[1] https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/ai-enhanced-immersive-wizard-oz-debuts-las-vegas-2025-08-29/
[2] https://theoutpost.ai/news-story/ai-enhanced-wizard-of-oz-debuts-at-las-vegas-sphere-with-surprising-cameos-19680/