New Documentary Explores the Creation of Disneyland
A new documentary titled “Disneyland Handcrafted” will premiere on January 22, 2024, on YouTube and Disney+. Directed by Leslie Iwerks, the film provides an in-depth look at the year-long transformation of an orange grove in Anaheim into the iconic Disneyland theme park. The documentary features rare footage sourced from the Walt Disney Archives, showcasing the construction process that led to the park’s opening in 1955.
Leslie Iwerks, an Oscar- and Emmy-nominated filmmaker, is uniquely positioned to tell this story. She is the granddaughter of Ub Iwerks, Walt Disney’s first business partner and co-creator of Mickey Mouse, and the daughter of Don Iwerks, a Disney animator and Imagineer. This familial connection adds a personal touch to the documentary, which aims to highlight the challenges and triumphs faced during the park’s construction.
The film is built around over 100 hours of previously unseen footage, captured by a team of cameramen assigned by Walt Disney himself. This archival material includes scenes of the initial land clearing, the construction of rides, and the installation of iconic features like Sleeping Beauty Castle and the Disneyland Railroad. Iwerks and her team have meticulously restored this footage, providing viewers with a high-resolution glimpse into the park’s early days.
Behind the Scenes of Disneyland’s Construction
“Disneyland Handcrafted” frames the park’s creation as one of Walt Disney’s greatest gambles, aiming to build a place that had never been imagined before. Critics at the time doubted the feasibility of the project, predicting failure before the park even opened. The documentary captures the intense pressure and determination that characterized the year leading up to the grand opening.
The film’s trailer offers a sneak peek into the documentary’s content, featuring aerial shots of the orange groves being transformed into a bustling construction site. Viewers will see earth movers clearing land, workers assembling rides, and Walt Disney himself overseeing the progress from an observation tower. The footage reveals the immense effort and creativity that went into crafting the park’s attractions, from the whimsical Mad Tea Party teacups to the majestic Mark Twain Riverboat.
Walt Disney World’s Kent Muscaro and Son Sgt. Muscaro Team Up for Marine Toys
The documentary also highlights the craftsmanship involved in creating Disneyland’s iconic features. Viewers will witness artisans hand-painting details, installing animatronics, and constructing the park’s signature attractions. This behind-the-scenes perspective not only celebrates the artistry of the builders but also emphasizes the collaborative spirit that brought Disneyland to life.
As Disneyland approaches its 70th anniversary, “Disneyland Handcrafted” serves as a timely tribute to the vision and hard work that made the park a reality. With its blend of historical footage and personal narratives, the documentary promises to engage both longtime fans of Disney and newcomers alike.
