Documentary films aren't for everybody, but the magic of Disney has made the genre more digestible for those dipping their toes in the subject matter. Thanks to Disney+, viewers now have access to a multitude of documentaries on which to expand their minds. Where would a streaming service by Disney be without a few Disney docs in the mix?
If you're anything like we are, documentary series and films about Walt Disney's magical empire definitely do more than tickle your fancy. From the early days of black and white cartoons to the ingenious phenomenon that is Disney Imagineering, there are plenty of titles on the subject of Disney.
Saludos Amigos
Saludos Amigos is the honorable mention on our list, mainly because it's essentially a package film with documentary elements. That doesn't mean the experiences had by Disney's team of animators are any less factual, but it's not exactly your conventional documentary film. It's basically a research trip with some animated sequences thrown in.
The framing device of this film shows Walt Disney and his animation department taking a trip through South America and taking inspiration from the local culture. It's an interesting film but works better when paired with The Three Caballeros. Plus, it introduced the world to José Carioca.
The Reluctant Dragon
Think of Disney's The Reluctant Dragon, a kid's first documentary film. It has all the charm and -friendly nature of a typical Disney flick, but it does dive into serious elements of the animation process. In a way, this film was Walt Disney's ultimate backstage for his fans and followers.
Viewers see the work of color technicians, animators, foley artist, and story writers at the Disney studio. Keep in mind; this was back during the age of Walt Disney, which gives the film some often overlooked historical significance. It definitely gives a sense of appreciation for the art of animation.
The Plausible Impossible
In this episode of his famous Disneyland series, Walt Disney himself teaches the fundamentals of the animation process in a way that viewers of all ages can thoroughly understand. With the help of characters like Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, we are essentially given a crash course in the art form.
Walt not only teaches a brief history of what he refers to as the Plausible Impossible, but also shows what an effect that color, sound, and movement can have on an animated character. It's definitely a must-watch for any fans of the man behind the mouse.
Disneyland Around the Seasons
Yet another Disneyland episode braces our list, this time with more focus on Walt's original theme park and once again hosted by the man himself. Although the parks have come a long way since his time, this episode of Disneyland gives us a brief window to the past so that we may see how the park was in its early years.
Essentially a peek at the early days of Disney Imagineering, the episode shows how the park was prepped for various holidays and celebrations in the days before our modern technology. Similar to the previous two entries of our list, it definitely blows our minds to see how far Disneyland has come.
Decorating Disney: Holiday Magic
Speaking of decorating the parks, if you're looking for something more contemporary, you should definitely check out Decorating Disney. This Freeform special is another behind-the-scenes look at how's the parks are prepped for the holiday season. This time, however, we are taking to both Disneyworld and Disneyland to see how Christmas magic mixes with Disney's.
From watching the construction of gingerbread houses to prepping for the Magic Kingdom's Christmas parade, it's a great way to get a taste of your favorite parks if you aren't able to visit during the holiday season. It definitely puts us more than in the spirit.
Disney Insider
This docu-series is relatively new to Disney+'s catalog, but it's one we suggest you pay close attention to if you're looking to keep up with the latest and greatest from the company. Featuring sneak peeks inside current streaming projects and updates on movies, it's a great way to stay on top.
The most recent episode features a backstage look at Diary of a Future President, current progress on the Mulan remake, and a look at animation history with Disney Legends, Andreas Deja, and Burny Mattison. We can definitely see this becoming a binge-worthy series.
One Day at Disney
If variety is the spice of life, then this documentary is definitely well-seasoned. One Day at Disney looks into the lives of the various types of people that helped bring the magic to life for so many loving fans. From former CEO, Bob Iger, to animation legend Eric Goldberg, we're shown the immensely talented crew of the company and how they spend one day at Disney.
There's a little bit of everything in this feature; there's a peek inside the parks, the corporate side, animation, and Disney Imagineering. It's a more personal and intimate look into the lives of these wonderful people that give their all to make the magic work.
Frank and Ollie
If you're looking for a feel-good flick as well as a documentary, look no further than Frank and Ollie. This incredibly charming feature stars two of Walt Disney's original animators, Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, and how their friendship and cooperation influenced the work they did a number of animated features.
Both artists were a testament to the animated medium, but there's something extra special about seeing how well these two work together. To hear them talk about their lives in the early days of Disney gives a unique perspective on some of the most beloved films of all time. Thanks to them, the world has known such adored characters like Bambi, Alice, and the Seven Dwarves.
Waking Sleeping Beauty
Every true Disney fan knows that the height of their animation was seen during a period of time known as the Disney Renaissance. Waking Sleeping Beauty covers the decade of 1984 to 1994 in which many of our favorite animated features were developed, and Disney not only grew but evolved as a company altogether.
Directed by Don Hahn, this film shows us a more personal look at famous future filmmakers who got their start at the company. Viewers will see interviews with the likes of John Lasseter, Musker and Clements, and even a young Tim Burton, all icons of the company, and how Disney affected them.
The Imagineering Story
This docu-series is definitely Disney+'s ultimate history lesson. The Imagineering Story shows us every detail of Disney's Imagineers, warts and all. From the disastrous opening of Disneyland in 1955 to current and future projects with modern technology, it's perfect for anyone wanting an in-depth look at the history of the Disney parks.
This series is not only interesting but invigoratingly fascinating. All the different types of artistry and techniques used by Walt's select group of ingenious individuals come to life right before our eyes. With the colorful stylings of Mary Blair and the weird and wonderful creations of Marc Davis, we are shown the evolution of the happiest places on earth.
