The Scarecrow from the 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz has always held a special place in the hearts of fans. He may be made of straw, constantly losing his stuffing, and not the least bit frightening, but his kind heart and lovable nature made him unforgettable. Played by Ray Bolger, the Scarecrow brought a unique blend of humor, warmth, and physical comedy to the screen.

One of his most memorable moments is the song “If I Only Had a Brain,” which perfectly captures his desire for intelligence and self-improvement. While most people remember this scene as a short musical number, what many don’t know is that there was actually a much longer version filmed but later cut from the final release of the movie. This extended scene included additional lyrics and an elaborate dance sequence that showcased Bolger’s incredible talents as a performer. The version that appeared in the final film lasted only about one minute, giving us a brief glimpse into the Scarecrow’s personality and charm. However, the full version, which was removed for the sake of pacing and runtime, runs closer to four minutes and reveals so much more about the character.

In the deleted version, we not only get to hear the complete song, but we also see Bolger perform an impressive dance routine choreographed by the legendary Busby Berkeley. Berkeley was well known in Hollywood for his extravagant, synchronized musical numbers that pushed the boundaries of film choreography, and his work in this scene is no exception. Bolger, who had a background in vaudeville and was known for his rubbery limbs and distinctive dance style, delivers a performance that is as entertaining as it is physically impressive. The dance sequence is full of energetic jumps, spins, and creative movements that make it seem like the Scarecrow is flying—though technically, it’s just Bolger’s remarkable ability to leap and bound with incredible grace and control.

The choreography plays on the idea that the Scarecrow doesn’t have bones, allowing Bolger to bend and twist in ways that appear both comical and surprisingly beautiful. The scene was filmed in the familiar cornfield where Dorothy first meets the Scarecrow, but with the extended version, the setting feels more alive and magical. It gives the character a moment to shine on his own, allowing the audience to appreciate the depth of his personality and the enthusiasm he brings to the idea of possibly gaining a brain. While it’s unfortunate that this scene was removed from the theatrical release, the good news is that the footage has been preserved and is now available to view online and in special editions of the film.

Watching it now, one can’t help but wonder how much more powerful the Scarecrow’s introduction would have been if this longer version had been included. It not only provides entertainment but also adds emotional weight to the character’s journey. It’s a prime example of the kind of artistry and attention to detail that made The Wizard of Oz such an enduring classic. The decision to cut the scene likely came down to keeping the film’s pace tight and efficient, particularly since it appears early in the movie. But for fans of Ray Bolger and classic Hollywood musicals, this extended number is a hidden treasure. It serves as a reminder of just how much talent was poured into every element of the production. From the songwriting to the choreography to Bolger’s expressive performance, this deleted scene enriches the legacy of the Scarecrow and enhances our appreciation for the film as a whole. Whether you’re revisiting The Wizard of Oz for the hundredth time or discovering this deleted gem for the first time, it’s a joy to watch Ray Bolger bring the Scarecrow to life in a way that’s full of heart, humor, and astonishing skill.