Get ready to witness the magic behind the magic—Disneyland Handcrafted, a documentary that promises to reveal the 'miraculous' story of how Disneyland was built, is coming to the big screen for a limited time. But here's where it gets exciting: before it lands on your streaming platforms, you can catch it exclusively at AMC Burbank Town Center 8 from January 14 to January 20, 2026. Directed by Leslie Iwerks, a filmmaker with Disney in her DNA (her grandfather, Ub Iwerks, and father, Don Iwerks, are both Disney Legends), this documentary dives deep into the archival footage that showcases the incredible journey of Disneyland’s construction. And this is the part most people miss—the film premiered earlier this month at Walt Disney Studios, setting the stage for its highly anticipated release.
Controversy alert: While many celebrate Disneyland as a symbol of imagination and joy, the documentary doesn’t shy away from the challenges and controversies that marked its creation. Was it truly a 'miracle' that it opened on time, or were there sacrifices made along the way? We’ll let you decide.
After its theatrical run, Disneyland Handcrafted will be available digitally on Disney+ and the Disney YouTube channel starting January 22, 2026. But why wait? Grab your tickets now at AMC Theatres and experience the story on the big screen.
Leslie Iwerks is no stranger to Disney storytelling—her previous work, The Imagineering Story, laid the foundation for this documentary, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the creativity and innovation that define Disney. Bold question: Does this documentary glorify Disney’s past, or does it provide a balanced view of the triumphs and struggles? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Whether you’re planning to watch it at AMC Burbank or cozy up at home, this is one Disney story you won’t want to miss. For more updates on Disneyland Resort and Disney Parks worldwide, follow Disneyland News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, or visit WDWNT.
Final thought: As we celebrate Disneyland’s legacy, what does this documentary reveal about the price of perfection? Share your opinions below—we’re eager to hear your take!