Eighty-five years ago, in 1939, a young JoAnn Van Dam, then just eight years old, witnessed the cinematic marvel that was “The Wizard of Oz” during its premiere. This year, having reached the age of 94, JoAnn experienced another momentous occasion: witnessing the theatrical release of “Wicked,” the prequel story exploring the origins of the iconic witches of Oz. This heartwarming story, initially shared by JoAnn’s granddaughter Alison on TikTok, quickly captured the hearts of millions, demonstrating the enduring magic of classic cinema and the power of intergenerational connections.
A Journey Back to 1939: Experiencing the Wonder of “The Wizard of Oz”
For JoAnn, the premiere of “The Wizard of Oz” was more than just a movie; it was a portal to a world of fantasy unlike anything she had ever seen. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, she recalled the era when movies were a rare and cherished form of entertainment. “Back then, fantasy was so new, and we didn’t know what to expect,” she shared, emphasizing the novelty of the cinematic experience. The vibrant Technicolor, a groundbreaking technology at the time, left an indelible mark on her young mind. The transition from the sepia-toned opening scenes to the dazzling world of Oz was a revelation. “We had no idea that was coming,” JoAnn reminisced. “The color made it feel so much more alive and magical.” This experience solidified “The Wizard of Oz” as a cornerstone of her childhood memories, shaping her lifelong appreciation for storytelling and cinematic innovation.
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Bridging Generations: “Wicked” Revives the Magic of Oz
More than eight decades later, JoAnn’s journey with the world of Oz continued with a viewing of “Wicked” alongside her granddaughter Alison and daughter Lois Martin. This experience wasn’t just a trip to the cinema; it was a living bridge connecting two vastly different eras of filmmaking and storytelling. Alison shared with PEOPLE how captivated her grandmother was by the modern cinematic techniques employed in “Wicked.” “She was amazed at the big screen and the special effects — like the flying monkeys,” Alison recounted. Witnessing JoAnn’s childlike wonder at the spectacle of “Wicked” underscored the timeless appeal of the Oz narrative and its ability to resonate across generations. This shared experience transcended the simple act of watching a movie; it became a powerful testament to the enduring bonds of family and the shared love of storytelling.
A Viral Sensation: Sharing the Magic with the World
Alison’s decision to capture and share snippets of her grandmother’s “Wicked” experience on TikTok resulted in an unexpected viral phenomenon. What began as a personal memento of a cherished family outing quickly blossomed into a heartwarming story that touched the lives of millions. “I just thought it was such a cool, full-circle moment,” Alison confessed, humbled by the widespread positive response. The video resonated with viewers who saw reflections of their own grandparents and cherished family memories in JoAnn’s enthusiastic reactions. This organic viral moment exemplifies the power of authentic storytelling and the universal desire for connection and shared experiences.
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The Enduring Legacy of Oz: Looking Forward to the Future
JoAnn, approaching her 95th birthday, remains remarkably humble about the unexpected viral fame. For her, the true magic lies in the shared experience with her family. “It was so much fun. And being with them — that’s the best part,” she affirmed. Lois, JoAnn’s daughter, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the profound importance of intergenerational connection. “It’s humbling to see how much it means to others,” Lois remarked. “It’s just a joy to watch my children bond with my parents. Seeing the connections deepen between generations makes these experiences worth it.” The outpouring of comments on Alison’s TikTok video further highlighted the emotional resonance of JoAnn’s story. Users shared personal anecdotes of their own grandparents, often invoking the iconic “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” further solidifying the enduring legacy of “The Wizard of Oz” in popular culture. With the anticipation of the second installment of “Wicked” set to premiere in 2025, JoAnn and her family are already eagerly planning their next cinematic adventure, ready to create new memories and further strengthen their familial bonds through the shared magic of cinema. The journey from “The Wizard of Oz” to “Wicked” has not only spanned decades but has also woven a rich tapestry of shared experiences, highlighting the timeless power of storytelling and the enduring magic of the silver screen. This heartwarming tale reminds us that the most precious treasures are often found not in the spectacle itself, but in the shared moments of joy and connection that transcend generations.
