A New Look at How Disneyland Was Built
Disneyland Handcrafted tells the story of the year leading up to Opening Day. It focuses on the people who made Walt Disney’s vision a reality.
Directed by Oscar and Emmy–nominated filmmaker Leslie Iwerks, the documentary begins streaming on Disney+ and Disney YouTube on January 22, 2026.
From Destination D23 to Disney+ Release
The documentary was first revealed at the “Creating The Happiest Place on Earth” panel during Destination D23. That preview emphasized craft, memory, and the human effort behind Disneyland’s creation.
Rare Footage Straight from the Walt Disney Archives
Disneyland Handcrafted is built entirely from rare archival footage and original audio recordings pulled from the Walt Disney Archives.
Leslie Iwerks and her team uncovered long-forgotten 16mm film reels and audio recordings, many of which had never been scanned, creating an unfiltered, behind-the-scenes view of Disneyland’s construction.
Disneyland from Groundbreaking to Opening Day
The film follows Disneyland from early construction through Opening Day on July 17, 1955. Viewers watch as the park takes shape behind the orange groves, while artists, craftsmen, and Imagineers work under intense pressure.
Because Walt Disney chose to document the process on film, modern audiences can experience these moments with remarkable clarity.
Leslie Iwerks at the Center of the Story
Leslie Iwerks brings both creative expertise and personal history to Disneyland Handcrafted. She previously led The Imagineering Story for Disney+.
As the granddaughter of Ub Iwerks and daughter of Don Iwerks, her connection to Disney history adds depth and credibility to the film’s perspective.
Why Disneyland Handcrafted Matters Now
More than 70 years after opening, Disneyland remains the blueprint for the global Disney Parks industry. By returning to its earliest days, Disneyland Handcrafted reminds viewers that the park began as a risky, handcrafted experiment driven by belief and collaboration.
Streaming January 22, 2026
Disneyland Handcrafted begins streaming on Disney+ and Disney YouTube on January 22, 2026. For Disney Parks fans and history lovers, the film delivers a focused, intimate look at how the Happiest Place on Earth came to life.
