For generations, Disney fans have watched their favorite stories leap from the screen into unforgettable theme park experiences. Now, they’re getting a rare look at how that magic happens.
Disney is pulling back the curtain with Disney Worldbuilders, a brand-new documentary premiering on Disney+ next month that explores the creative journey of transforming beloved films and franchises into the immersive worlds guests experience across Disney Parks around the globe.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Leslie Iwerks—granddaughter of Disney Legend Ub Iwerks, who co-created Mickey Mouse alongside Walt Disney—the documentary offers an inside look at the collaboration between filmmakers, Imagineers and creative teams responsible for bringing Disney’s biggest stories to life beyond the screen.
Through behind-the-scenes footage and conversations with some of the company’s most influential storytellers, Disney Worldbuilders explores how franchises including Frozen, Zootopia and Star Wars evolve from animated and cinematic adventures into fully realized destinations that invite guests to step inside the worlds they know and love.
The documentary features appearances from James Cameron, Kevin Feige, Jon Favreau, Pete Docter, Jennifer Lee and Jared Bush, who share how storytelling, technology and imagination work together to create experiences that extend well beyond film and television. As Favreau explains in the teaser, “Technology with a good piece of storytelling creates this immersive experience.”
Along the way, viewers will also get rare glimpses of new lands, attractions and experiences currently taking shape across Disney Parks, offering an early look at the next generation of immersive adventures still under development.
Former Disney CEO Bob Iger reflects on the power of bringing world-class storytellers together under one company, while Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro discusses how that legacy continues evolving for new generations of guests.
The documentary also arrives during a period of significant growth for Disney Experiences. Earlier this year, guests saw The Mandalorian and Grogu join Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, while World of Frozen welcomed visitors to Disneyland Paris—two examples of how Disney continues transforming its most beloved stories into destinations fans can experience firsthand.
Rather than simply celebrating completed attractions, Disney Worldbuilders shines a spotlight on the creative process itself, revealing the collaboration, craftsmanship and imagination required to bridge the gap between filmmaking and themed entertainment.
The documentary will make its world premiere during D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event before launching on Disney+, giving fans an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the people and ideas that continue shaping the magic found throughout Disney Parks worldwide.
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