Las Vegas, NV — The Wizard of Oz Reimagined is a collaborative project between Google Cloud, DeepMind, Sphere Studios, Warner Bros., and immersive experience studio Magnopus is reshaping how audiences engage with classic cinema. Together, the teams have adapted The Wizard of Oz for the Las Vegas Sphere using advanced artificial intelligence and cloud-based infrastructure.
This initiative showcases how AI tools and cloud computing can support digital restoration and immersive media, offering a new way to experience legacy films in modern formats.
Updating a Classic for a New Format
Originally produced in 1939, The Wizard of Oz was filmed in a 4:3 aspect ratio. This format presents limitations when scaled to fit the Sphere’s 16K x 16K screen, which spans an immersive, curved surface designed for full-environment visuals.
To address this, the collaboration applied several AI-driven techniques to adapt the film while preserving its original intent and visual style.
How AI Helped Transform the Wizard of Oz Reimagined Viewing Experience
Key technologies used in the project include:
- Super Resolution: Google’s VO2 model was used to enhance the original footage, improving clarity and visual detail beyond what standard upscaling methods could offer.
- Outpainting: AI models filled in areas beyond the original frame, extending scenery and character details in a way consistent with the film’s aesthetic. For example, background environments and costume details were reconstructed based on existing context.
- Performance Generation: Using training data from the original film, AI was able to generate lifelike character movements and expressions for moments not originally captured on screen.
Cloud Infrastructure Supports Complex Processing
Google Cloud provided the computing power and storage resources necessary to manage and process high-resolution video and machine learning workloads. The cloud environment enabled efficient collaboration across multiple teams and locations while supporting the scale of data required for this format.
Careful Restoration with Creative Integrity
Throughout the project, the teams worked with historians and film experts to ensure the AI-generated content aligned with the artistic direction of the original creators. Each enhancement was reviewed to respect the tone, design, and visual storytelling of the 1939 film.
A New Approach to Film and Technology
This adaptation of The Wizard of Oz Reimagined illustrates how AI and cloud tools can be used to support creative professionals in media production, restoration, and immersive design. Rather than replacing traditional methods, technology in this context helps expand possibilities for how stories are experienced.
About the Project Partners
- Google Cloud offers scalable infrastructure and AI tools that support a range of industries, including media and entertainment.
- DeepMind focuses on developing advanced AI solutions with applications in research, science, and creative industries.
- Sphere Studios leads content innovation for the Las Vegas Sphere, producing media tailored for immersive environments.
- Warner Bros. holds a large portfolio of classic and modern films and continues to explore new ways to present cinematic works.
- Magnopus specializes in building interactive and immersive experiences using a combination of design, storytelling, and emerging technologies.
Availability
The enhanced version: The Wizard of Oz Reimagned will premiere at the Las Vegas Sphere in Summer 2025. Attendees will experience a new presentation of the film adapted specifically for the venue’s unique capabilities.