Disneyland: Handcrafted (dir. Lesile Iwerks)

By: Dave Hughes

A distinct sense of magic has defined the Disney legacy for over a century. This influence extends from the silver screen to global theme parks, creating a reality that resonates with millions. Available on Disney +, Disneyland: Handcrafted explores the creation of the Anaheim, California resort with unprecedented detail. Narrated by Walt Disney and other pivotal figures involved in the park's construction, the documentary is essential viewing for enthusiasts and historians alike. It serves as a compelling tribute to a man who refused to abandon his vision, regardless of the numerous setbacks he encountered during the park's development.  Mention where the film is available

Disneyland: Handcrafted is a unique documentary constructed entirely from vintage footage of the resort's development. When the project was commissioned, Walt Disney hired a dedicated team of videographers to record every phase of construction. Much of this archival material has remained unseen until this specific release. The film avoids traditional "talking head" interviews, opting instead for a layered voiceover approach. This allows the participants to narrate the assembly of iconic rides and lands while the camera focuses entirely on the historic footage. The result is a seamless, immersive journey through the birth of a cultural landmark.

The sheer volume of footage collected for this project is remarkable. The high-quality restoration allows viewers to witness the meticulous assembly of the park with stunning clarity. From the earliest stages of development, the familiar silhouettes of iconic landmarks are visible, yet the most astonishing sequences involve ride creation and testing. A highlight includes rare footage of the Peter Pan ride during its trial phase, offering an exciting glimpse into the mechanics of a legendary attraction. Originally recorded on 16mm film, these archives have been meticulously restored in partnership with the Disney vault to ensure the legacy remains preserved for future generations.

Walt’s drive to complete this park is astonishing but it was not without setbacks and questions of financing. The documentary acknowledges that building a place reminiscent of a Fairy Tale, like Disneyland, was an arduous task with many uncertainties. Walt himself even questions if the money is there for this park multiple times. It is impossible not to be both shocked and surprised to hear the stories of Walt at his most desperate times. However, the morale of Disney is resolute and never changing when it comes to completing his park. 

Director Leslie Iwerks returns to the Disney fold following her acclaimed work on The Imagineering Story (2019). Iwerks manages the monumental task of distilling thousands of hours of archival footage into a cohesive, inspiring narrative. The documentary highlights the immense team of artisans and engineers who transformed Walt’s vision into reality. The precision required to synchronize specific historical footage with archival spoken word is an awe-inspiring feat that cannot be overlooked. By focusing on the human effort behind the mechanical innovations, Iwerks provides a definitive look at the determination required to build the world's most illustrious theme park.

Target Score 9/10: Leslie Iwerks delivers an unforgettably inspiring experience with Disneyland: Handcrafted. By masterfully utilizing rare archival footage and historical interviews, Iwerks showcases the relentless drive and craftsmanship that defined the creation of a cultural phenomenon. It is an essential document for fans of history, engineering, and the enduring legacy of Walt Disney.