With the release of Disneyland Handcrafted just days away, Disney has shared a new featurette that adds personal context to the documentary’s creation. This behind-the-scenes look centers on director Leslie Iwerks and the deep Disney history that shaped both her career and this project.
The featurette arrives as anticipation builds for the documentary’s debut on January 22, 2026, on Disney+ and the official Disney YouTube channel.
A Personal Connection to Disneyland
For Leslie Iwerks, Disneyland Handcrafted is more than a historical documentary. It is a deeply personal story rooted in her family’s legacy at Disney.
Iwerks is the granddaughter of Ub Iwerks, the legendary animator and technical innovator who helped bring Mickey Mouse to life. She is also the daughter of Don Iwerks, a Disney Legend known for his groundbreaking work in film technology. Growing up around the studio and the parks gave her a unique perspective on how Disney stories are created.
That lifelong connection informs the way Disneyland Handcrafted approaches its subject. Rather than framing the park as a finished icon, the film focuses on the people, processes, and uncertainty behind its creation.
Building the Documentary From the Archives
In the featurette, Iwerks explains how the documentary was almost entirely shaped by archival materials. The team worked through hundreds of reels of film, reconstructing the story of Disneyland’s construction from groundbreaking to opening day in 1955.
Instead of modern interviews, the documentary relies on original footage, historical audio, and carefully selected transcripts. This approach places viewers inside the moment, allowing the story to unfold as it did for the people building the park.
Bringing Silent Footage to Life
Much of the archival footage used in Disneyland Handcrafted was originally silent. The featurette highlights how the filmmakers partnered with Skywalker Sound to build a complete audio environment from scratch.
Every sound was created to match the visuals, from construction noise to subtle ambient details. This sound design plays a major role in making the documentary feel immersive rather than archival.
When and Where to Watch
Disneyland Handcrafted premieres January 22, 2026. The documentary will stream on Disney+ and will also be available on the official Disney YouTube channel.
The behind-the-scenes featurette featuring Leslie Iwerks is available now through Disney’s official channels, offering a preview of the story and craftsmanship behind the full film.
