Disney has been enchanting audiences for decades with its magical tales and characters. However, the magic isn’t just in the finished product—it’s also in the fascinating stories of how these wonders are brought to life. For Disney aficionados and documentary lovers alike, here are the 10 best Disney documentaries that lift the curtain and give a glimpse of the magic behind the scenes:

1.”Waking Sleeping Beauty” (2009) – This documentary focuses on the revival of Disney’s animation division between 1984 and 1994, known as the Renaissance period. It provides an insightful look at the making of classics such as “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and “The Lion King.”

2.”The Imagineering Story” (2019) – A six-part series exclusive to Disney+, this docu-series delves into the history of Walt Disney Imagineering, exploring how they create the worldwide magic found at Disney theme parks.

3.”Frank and Ollie” (1995) – A heartwarming tribute to two of Disney’s original animators, Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, this documentary illustrates their contributions to iconic movies and their lifelong friendship.

4.”Empire of Dreams: The Story of the Star Wars Trilogy” (2004) – Telling the tale of one of Disney’s most successful acquisitions, this film details the creation of the original Star Wars trilogy and its monumental impact on pop culture.

5.”Life, Animated” (2016) – This touching documentary showcases how Disney animations played a role in helping Owen Suskind, a young man with autism, connect with the world around him.

6.”Howard” (2018) – Available on Disney+, this film is a tribute to Howard Ashman, who wrote lyrics for “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and “Aladdin.” It traces his life, career, and untimely death before finishing his work on “Aladdin.”

7.”Walt & El Grupo” (2008) – Following Walt Disney during a goodwill tour to South America in 1941, this documentary uncovers how his trip influenced classic films like “Saludos Amigos” and “The Three Caballeros.”

8.”Walt: The Man Behind The Myth” (2001) – An official biography produced by The Walt Disney Family Foundation that provides an intimate look into Walt Disney’s life including his triumphs within animation, theme parks, and more.

9.”Into The Unknown: Making Frozen 2″ (2020) – This series on Disney+ gives viewers a rare sneak peek into the production challenges faced while creating “Frozen II,” one of Disney’s most anticipated sequels.

10.”Behind The Attraction” (2021) – This collection unveils secrets behind famous Disney park attractions around the globe—from Haunted Mansion to Space Mountain—giving viewers a detailed look at their imaginative inception.

Each documentary offers unparalleled insight into what it takes to create some of cinema’s most magical moments as well as maintain theme parks that amaze millions each year. Whether you’re interested in animation, storytelling, or theme park creation, these documentaries are sure to deepen your appreciation for all things Disney.