Disney documentaries provide a raw and intimate glimpse into the world of animation, showcasing the challenges and remarkable achievements of the studio throughout its history.
While there is no shortage of great documentaries about Walt Disney, these 10 stand out for really taking fans behind the magic.
These documentaries offer a captivating glimpse into the meticulous process behind the creation of beloved Disney films, revealing the raw and authentic journey of bringing these enchanting projects to life. With ten captivating films that explore the filmmaking process in detail, they provide a rare and immersive experience for Disney fans.
When Walt Disney was still leading the renowned studio, he was backed by a core group of animators who became renowned as the "Nine Old Men." Two of these animators, Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, played a pivotal role in this documentary. The documentary's profound significance stems from the fact that it was directed and written by Frank's son, Theodore, providing a personal and insightful perspective into the studio's early years. It sheds light on the challenges faced by the studio, proving the remarkable journey they have undertaken to reach the pinnacle of success they have achieved today.
The 1998 TV documentary, It All Started with a Mouse: The Walt Disney Story takes viewers on a journey through the life and career of Walt Disney. The documentary features classic footage that sheds light on the genesis of Disney's beloved films, such as Snow White, Pinocchio, and Bambi. It is not only informative but also inspiring, as it highlights the relentless pursuit of one's dreams and the enduring power of storytelling.
The 2002 documentary, "The Sweatbox," is notable for showcasing the chaotic nature of massive Disney productions. It chronicles the making of one of Disney's animated films, "The Emperor's New Groove," during pre-production. Sting was approached by the director to contribute songs for the soundtrack, but his condition stipulated that he and his wife, Trudie Styler, would document the production process. While the collaboration initially started smoothly, it faced significant challenges due to less-than-ideal working conditions, including a lack of air conditioning in the screening room in Burbank, where animators faced discomfort while their work was being reviewed.
The Pixar Story is a film that Disney has sought to hide due to its brief, limited theatrical run. Despite this, Disney chose to remain silent about its release, making it accessible only through leaked clips online. While this documentary is not the most cheerful, it is an important watch that highlights the dedication and artistry of the animators behind some of the most renowned movies of all time. Their hard work and dedication deserve recognition, and even just watching the leaked clips can have a profound impact.
Directed by the Academy Award-nominated Leslie Iwerks, "The Pixar Story" is a documentary that chronicles the remarkable history of Pixar Animation Studios. The film offers a comprehensive and captivating exploration of the studio's journey from its humble beginnings as a Bay Area startup to its global dominance in the entertainment industry. Through interviews with influential figures such as Tom Hanks, George Lucas, Michael Eisner, and Bob Iger, the documentary provides an intimate glimpse into the lives and contributions of some of the most pivotal figures in Pixar's history.
The 2009 documentary, "Waking Sleeping Beauty," offers a unique glimpse into how Walt Disney Animation Studios defied the odds and emerged from their mid-1980s slump with a fresh perspective. The film features archival footage and is narrated by Don Hahn, who worked on "Beauty and the Beast" and "The Lion King." It specifically focuses on a group of young and ambitious animators and filmmakers who faced significant challenges in securing outside funding and pleasing studio executives. Their insights provide an extraordinary look into the filmmaking process and give audiences a rare perspective into the struggles faced by Disney animators during that era.
One of the most memorable aspects of Disney films is the music that captivates audiences long after the film has ended. The documentary, "The Boys: The Sherman Brothers' Story," delves into the process of creating these iconic songs and chronicles the dynamic personal relationship between Richard M. and Robert B. Sherman, who were prolific music collaborators for Disney. The documentary explores the deep and enduring rift between the two brothers, despite their shared success.
The 2020 documentary, "The Mandalorian," is led by a renowned film historian and avid collector named Dan Lanigan. Lanigan meticulously tracked down and recovered the props used in the iconic Disney films, such as "Pirates of the Caribbean" and "The Muppet Movie." These props were then presented to the people involved in the filmmaking process, allowing them to embark on a nostalgic journey down memory lane. Additionally, this documentary unveils surprising industry secrets, shedding light on how renowned movie props were sourced, made, and stored.
"Into the Unknown: Making Frozen 2 offers viewers an intimate glimpse into the creative process that brought Frozen 2 to life. Through a three-season documentary series, the film's production crew shares their experiences and insights, giving viewers a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs that shaped the final film."
Mickey: The Story of a Mouse is a documentary that chronicles the life and career of Mickey Mouse. The film features interviews with the legendary cartoonist, archival footage, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. It offers a unique perspective on the creation of Mickey Mouse and his enduring legacy.Mickey: The Story of a Mouse is a documentary that celebrates the origin and cultural significance of the beloved character Mickey Mouse. The film chronicles the character's journey from his humble beginnings to his rise to fame and enduring appeal. It delves into the various iterations and cultural representations of Mickey over the decades, highlighting his impact on generations of fans.