From their humble beginnings as pioneers of the animated medium to their expansion as one of the biggest names in the film industry, looking back at Disney's history has always been a fascinating subject. For many Disney fans, watching the saga of Walt is an intriguing pastime enjoyed by all ages.
Thanks to their streaming service, viewers can open their minds and explore the early days of Disney with films, series, and specials. For those wanting to explore the origins and evolution of Disney's animation, film studios, and theme parks, take a look at these ten movies available on Disney+.
Saving Mr. Banks
Yes, there are several creative liberties taken, but how many Disney movies are actually about the making of a Disney movie?
Not only does Saving Mr. Banks open a window to the past with its depiction of '60s era Disney, but it shows viewers the battle of imaginations between Walt Disney and P.L. Travers. If nothing else, watch for Tom Hanks's performance as the man behind the mouse.
The Reluctant Dragon
Similar to Saving Mr. Banks, this film depicts, though a slightly romanticized version, the process of an animated cartoon. Through the eyes of a bumbling Robert Benchley, viewers are exposed to the ultimate backstage tour of Walt Disney's animation studio, including the story department, soundstage, and paint studio.
It's a very intimate and informative look at the life cycle of an animated feature. Definitely a must-watch for any animation junkie.
Walt and El Grupo
Though the film doesn't concern the Disney studio, it's leading man is none other than Walt Disney himself. Before the events of WWII, the United States government sent Walt Disney and his artists to South America as Good Will Ambassadors, hoping to win the continent's favor in the rising conflict.
This film provides a recorded of their time south of the border, as well as a rather adventurous side of Walt separate from his charming businessman persona.
The History of the Animated Cartoon
Ever wanted to attend a class in animation taught by Walt Disney? Disney+ has the answer with this episode of Walt Disney's Disneyland. In this special, Walt explains the history and origins of animation.
Despite its length, Walt goes into a pretty thorough discussion on the origins and development of the medium, including referencing his own contemporary, Max Fleischer. It's an impressive hour, to say the least.
The Plausible Impossible
Consider this feature a sequel to the previous entry, as it not only elaborates on a touch of animation history but animation as an art form itself. In this feature, Walt explains the titular concept of the Plausible Impossible, as well as other elements of the artistic side of the medium.
With some help from Mickey, Donald, and the ghosts from Bald Mountain, viewers are given an entertaining and informative lesson.
Disneyland Around the Seasons
So far, Walt has lectured on animation and its practices, but what about his famous original theme park? Disneyland Around the Seasons is not only an interesting and informative look at the park's early years, but it's almost a surreal experience seeing what the park was like back in 1966, all in glorious technicolor.
This special provides the viewer with a behind-the-scenes look at the internal workings of Disneyland before the modern versions fans love today.
Empire of Dreams
Though it's not a Disney creation, the Star Wars universe is certainly one of the company's most beloved sagas.
This documentary takes a journey across the stars and through the mind of director George Lucas, elaborating on the creation of his famous film series. From droids to the Death Star, this film covers anything that could tickle a Star Wars fan's fancy.
Frank and Ollie
Perhaps the most heartwarming feature on the list, Frank and Ollie is a documentary that concerns the lives and friendships of two of Walt Disney's original animators, Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston. These two friends were the hands behind the pens that spawned the likes of Bambi, Pinocchio, and many other classic Disney characters.
Their experience in the animated medium and working with Walt himself is definitely worth the watch.
The Boys: The Sherman Brothers Story
Similar to Frank and Ollie, this film features a more familiar duo. The two were responsible for songs like "Chim-Chim-Cher-ee," "The Wonderful Thing About Tiggers" and the infamous "It's a Small World."
If a Disney tune has ever gotten stuck in someone's head, they have the Sherman Brothers to thank for it.
Waking Sleeping Beauty
Waking Sleeping Beauty is a film that covers an important era in the Disney dynasty. After dealing with the post-Walt decade of the '70s, the ideal collaboration of artists, filmmakers, and other creative minds gave way to an iconic time known as The Disney Rennaissance.
It's the ultimate backstage for anyone with any remote interest in the Disney studio, pulling back the curtain on what appeared to be the company's golden era.