For Disney fans and theme park enthusiasts, The Imagineering Story on Disney+ is an absolute must-watch. This six-part documentary series, directed by Leslie Iwerks, provides a fascinating and in-depth look at the history, innovation, and resilience of Walt Disney Imagineering. It spans from its inception in the 1950s under Walt Disney’s vision to its modern-day triumphs and challenges, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the artistry and engineering that go into creating the world’s most beloved theme parks.

In our household, this series has become a cherished favorite. My five-year-old daughter, Marvel, has grown a deep appreciation for the creative minds behind her favorite rides. In fact, thanks to The Imagineering Story, she was able to recognize legendary Imagineer Bob Gurr on one of our Disneyland trips! Watching the journey of Imagineers—many of whom were jack-of-all-trades constantly learning and evolving—has been an inspiring experience for our entire family. The series not only highlights the technical mastery behind attractions but also the passionate individuals who dedicated their lives to bringing Walt Disney’s dreams to reality.

The Birth of Imagineering and WED Enterprises

Before Disneyland even opened, Walt Disney knew he needed a specialized team to turn his ambitious ideas into reality. In 1952, he founded WED Enterprises (now known as Walt Disney Imagineering), bringing together a group of artists, engineers, and designers who would later be known as Imagineers. Many of the early Imagineers had diverse backgrounds in film, animation, architecture, and mechanical design, making them uniquely suited for the challenge of designing an immersive theme park from scratch.

One of the most inspiring aspects of this era was the willingness of these creators to experiment and innovate. Many took pay cuts just to be part of WED because they believed in Walt’s vision. Figures like Bob Gurr, who designed ride vehicles for attractions like Autopia and the Monorail, and Harriet Burns, the first female Imagineer who helped bring attractions to life through intricate model-making, played crucial roles in shaping Disneyland and the theme parks that followed.

Highlights from The Imagineering Story

Each episode of the series offers incredible insights into different periods of Imagineering, from early struggles to massive successes. Here are some of the most fascinating facts we learned:

1. The Creation of Disneyland (Episode 1)

  • Disneyland was built in just one year, an incredibly ambitious timeline that resulted in some opening day mishaps, like sinking pavement and malfunctioning rides.
  • Walt Disney pioneered the concept of themed “lands,” immersing guests in completely different worlds within the same park.
  • The original Imagineers were given the freedom to experiment, which led to many of Disneyland’s innovative attractions, including Jungle Cruise and Peter Pan’s Flight.

2. Expanding the Dream: Walt Disney World (Episode 2)

  • Walt Disney personally bought land in Florida under fake company names to prevent price inflation before the construction of Walt Disney World.
  • The Magic Kingdom was designed with underground tunnels (Utilidors) so that cast members could travel unseen, maintaining the illusion of different themed lands.
  • Epcot was originally envisioned as a futuristic city before being reimagined as a theme park blending culture and innovation.

3. The Dark Times and Rebirth (Episode 3)

  • After Walt Disney’s passing in 1966, the Imagineering department struggled without his leadership.
  • The company went through financial difficulties, leading to slow growth in new attractions.
  • Michael Eisner’s arrival in the 1980s helped revitalize Imagineering, leading to the creation of Splash Mountain and Star Tours.

4. The Creation of Disneyland Paris (Episode 4)

  • Disneyland Paris (originally Euro Disney) was one of Disney’s most ambitious international projects, but it faced cultural challenges and financial difficulties.
  • Imagineers designed a breathtaking Phantom Manor, a darker take on the Haunted Mansion tailored for European audiences.
  • The park initially struggled due to misconceptions about French work culture, but it later became a beloved Disney destination.

5. The Rise of Disney’s California Adventure and Shanghai Disneyland (Episode 5)

  • The opening of Disney’s California Adventure in 2001 was met with criticism, leading to a billion-dollar revamp that introduced beloved attractions like Radiator Springs Racers.
  • Shanghai Disneyland was designed from the ground up to appeal to Chinese audiences, featuring a massive Pirates of the Caribbean ride unlike anything seen before.
  • Imagineers studied Chinese culture and aesthetics to ensure the park felt authentic while still staying true to Disney’s storytelling traditions.

6. The Modern Era: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge & Beyond (Episode 6)

  • The creation of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge marked one of the most ambitious expansions in Disney history, with an unprecedented level of immersion.
  • Imagineers developed new ride systems for Rise of the Resistance, making it one of the most technologically advanced attractions ever built.
  • The future of Imagineering continues to evolve with projects like Avengers Campus and innovative uses of projection mapping, animatronics, and augmented reality.

The Legacy of Women in Imagineering

One of the most rewarding aspects of The Imagineering Story is its acknowledgment of the women who helped shape Disney parks. From Mary Blair, who created the whimsical designs for It’s a Small World, to Alice Davis, who crafted intricate costumes for attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean, these women played a crucial role in Disney’s success. Seeing their contributions recognized was a powerful moment in the series.

Why This Series Matters

Beyond the nostalgia and fascinating behind-the-scenes footage, The Imagineering Story is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and passion. It reminds us that theme parks aren’t just about rides—they’re about storytelling, art, and the people who bring these dreams to life. The series also highlights the department’s struggles, from financial crises to leadership changes, showing how close Imagineering came to being disbanded at times. Yet, thanks to the dedication of its team, it continues to thrive.

Final Thoughts

The Imagineering Story is more than just a documentary—it’s an inspiring tribute to the dreamers who make Disney magic possible. For my family, it’s been a joy to watch, and it’s deepened our appreciation for the time, effort, and artistry that go into every ride. Seeing my daughter recognize Bob Gurr at Disneyland was a reminder of how powerful this series is in making history come alive.

We can only hope that Disney+ continues to produce more in-depth looks at Imagineering’s future projects. In the meantime, The Imagineering Story remains an essential watch for anyone who has ever marveled at the magic of a Disney park.