In an unprecedented blend of artificial intelligence and cinematic innovation, the classic Wizard of Oz film has been reimagined for the modern age. Premiering at the Sphere in Las Vegas on August 29, 2025, this version of the 1939 classic has been enhanced through AI-driven restoration and expansion. Developed by Google’s DeepMind and in collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery, the experience pushes the boundaries of immersive entertainment, setting a new precedent for the future of film.
The project, which took over two years and involved a team of more than 2,000 engineers and creatives, uses AI not only to restore the original footage but to add entirely new scenes, expanding the beloved film to fill the Sphere’s massive 16K LED dome. The result is a 360-degree cinematic experience where audiences feel completely enveloped in Oz. From Dorothy’s iconic freckled face to the textured burlap of the Scarecrow, AI’s capacity for ultra-high-definition resolution has brought every detail to life with stunning clarity.
The technological advancements don’t stop there—AI has been integrated into physical effects, enhancing the realism of swirling tornado winds and the flying monkeys that dart across the dome. But this cutting-edge technology has sparked debate within the creative community. While some express concerns over the integrity of altering such a classic, the project’s creators emphasise that AI was used to preserve and enhance the original vision. Sphere Entertainment’s CEO, James Dolan, heralds this as a leap forward for experiential storytelling, where the magic of AI and traditional filmmaking coexist to create something new and exciting.
For professionals in the technology sector, this project is a landmark moment in the convergence of AI and entertainment. It exemplifies how emerging technologies can elevate the cultural experience, providing new dimensions to storytelling. However, it also raises ethical questions about the role of AI in creative industries, as its influence continues to expand. For innovators and executives navigating the future of AI, the Wizard of Oz at the Sphere presents a compelling case for how technology can transform traditional art forms, offering a glimpse into the future of immersive, AI-driven experiences.
