A cast of thousands
Meaning
Something involving a very large number of people or elements, often implying a grand scale or complexity.
Origin
In the golden age of Hollywood, particularly from the 1920s to the 1950s, cinematic titans like Cecil B. DeMille became renowned for their epic productions. These films, boasting colossal sets and intricate costumes, often relied on thousands of extras to populate their sprawling historical narratives. Studios proudly emblazoned their promotional materials with the claim "A Cast of Thousands," a powerful marketing slogan that promised unparalleled spectacle and grandeur. This phrase, born from the dazzling world of movie-making, quickly transcended its literal origins, becoming a popular shorthand to describe any endeavor—a massive event, a complex project, or even a chaotic situation—that involves an immense multitude of participants or components.
Examples
- The opening ceremony for the Olympics truly felt like a cast of thousands, with performers filling every corner of the stadium.
- Organizing the annual charity marathon always requires a cast of thousands, from volunteers to security personnel.