Disney Plus is a treasure trove of entertainment for all ages. From classic animated movies to superhero blockbusters, the streaming platform has something for everyone. But did you know that Disney Plus also has an impressive collection of documentaries? These films offer a glimpse into the real world, showcasing diverse cultures, incredible stories, and amazing feats of human achievement. In this article, we have compiled a list of the 15 best documentaries on Disney Plus that you can’t afford to miss.
Also Read: Best Disney Plus Deals and How to Apply Them in 2023
Best Documentaries on Disney Plus – Top 15 Picks
1. Into the Unknown: Making Frozen 2
If you enjoyed the Frozen film series, then you are sure to enjoy this documentary that takes you behind the scenes of the production of the second film. You will get an insider’s look at the creative process, from the storyboarding to the animation, as well as the challenges that the team faced while bringing this well-known story to life.
2. Elephant
This documentary, which is narrated by Meghan Markle, will take you on an incredible adventure across the African savannah as it follows a herd of elephants as they migrate across the continent in search of food and water. You will gain knowledge about the social dynamics of these magnificent animals as well as the conservation efforts that are being made to protect them as you travel along.
3. The Imagineering Story
This documentary is perfect for you if you’ve ever been curious about how Disney comes up with the ideas for its amazing theme parks. The Imagineering Story takes you behind the scenes of Disneyland and Disney World, examining the history, innovation, and creativity that goes into bringing these fantastic worlds to life.
4. One Day at Disney
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to work for Disney? This documentary series follows a variety of employees across the company, from animators to cast members at theme parks, giving you an inside look at their daily routines and the passion they bring to their work.
5. Howard
Howard Ashman was the creative force behind some of Disney’s most iconic musicals, including Beauty and the Beast and The Little Mermaid. This documentary pays tribute to his life and work, tracing his journey from his meager beginnings to his untimely passing while highlighting the profound influence he had on the entertainment industry.
6. Jane Goodall: The Hope
This documentary highlights Jane Goodall’s unwavering commitment throughout her entire life to learning about and preserving the lives of chimpanzees, which are among the most intelligent and socially complex primates on the planet. Rare footage of her work in the field will be shown to you, and you’ll learn about the critical need for conservation efforts to be made to save these endangered species.
7. Becoming
Becoming chronicles the life of former First Lady, Michelle Obama. Through interviews and first-hand footage, viewers are taken on a journey through her early life in Chicago, her education at Princeton and Harvard Law School, her years as a lawyer and public servant, and her time in the White House. The documentary delves into not only her personal life but also her work in advancing education and leading a healthy lifestyle. For anyone interested in the motivational life story of Michelle Obama, this documentary is a great way to gain insight from such an influential and successful person who is constantly balancing their responsibilities.
8. Free Solo
Alex Honnold is a professional climber who is the subject of the breathtaking documentary Free Solo. The film follows Honnold as he attempts to become the first person to climb El Capitan without using any ropes or other safety equipment. You will be able to see his incredible preparation, both mentally and physically, as well as the risks and perils associated with participating in this extreme sport.
9. Waking Sleeping Beauty
This documentary transports you to the 1980s and 1990s, a period during which Disney was having difficulty producing animated films that were commercially successful. You will see the struggles behind the scenes, creative clashes, and eventual triumphs that led to the renaissance of Disney animation, including classics such as The Little Mermaid and The Lion King.
10. The Apollo
Since it first opened its doors in 1927, the Apollo Theater in Harlem has been regarded as one of the most important venues for African American music and culture. In this documentary, the history and legacy of the theatre are investigated, beginning with its early days as a venue that practiced segregation and moving on to the theater’s pivotal role at the beginning of the careers of some of the most famous musicians in the annals of music history.
11. The World According to Jeff Goldblum
This documentary series is hosted by the irrepressible Jeff Goldblum who takes you on a wild ride through a variety of topics from sneakers to ice cream to tattoos. The topics covered in the series range from tattoos to sneakers. You won’t find anyone else who can give you such an interesting and original outlook on the world around us as Jeff Goldblum can.
12. Before the Flood
Before the Flood provides a sobering look at the disastrous effects of climate change and the critical need to take action as soon as possible. It is narrated by Leonardo DiCaprio who has often advocated for action against climate change. You’ll see the effects of rising sea levels, melting ice caps, and extreme weather, as well as the efforts of scientists and activists to combat this global crisis.
13. National Geographic: Drain the Oceans
This fascinating series utilizes cutting-edge technology to uncover the long-concealed mysteries and tales that lie within the oceans of the world. You will encounter perilous and challenging situations while exploring the depths of the ocean, as well as incredible marine life and sunken cities that have been forgotten. Once again, Disney keeps us in the loop as we often forget the nature that surrounds us.
14. Inside Pixar
This documentary series will immerse you in the world of Pixar, taking you behind the scenes to investigate the creative process, the culture of the company, and the individuals who make it all possible. You will have the opportunity to take a behind-the-scenes look at the animation studios, brainstorming sessions, and the motivations that drive these talented artists. After all, Pixar is the studio that brought us Toy Story and Finding Nemo.
15. Expedition Mars: Spirit & Opportunity
This documentary follows the journey of the Mars rovers Spirit and Opportunity, which were sent to investigate the planet and look for any signs of life. You will be shown the incredible discoveries that were made, in addition to the difficulties and successes that were encountered during the mission.
FAQs:
What types of documentaries are included in the list of 15 best documentaries on Disney Plus?
The list of 15 best documentaries on Disney Plus includes a wide range of genres, from nature documentaries like “Elephant” and “Dolphin Reef” to music documentaries like “Howard.” The list also includes behind-the-scenes looks at the world of Disney, such as “The Imagineering Story” and “One Day at Disney.”
Are all of the documentaries on Disney Plus suitable for children?
While many of the documentaries on Disney Plus are suitable for children, some may contain mature themes or language. It’s always a good idea to check the ratings and content warnings before watching with children.
Can I download the documentaries on Disney Plus to watch offline?
Yes, you can download many of the documentaries on Disney Plus to watch offline. Just look for the download icon next to the title of the documentary.
Are there any documentaries on Disney Plus that are exclusive to the platform?
Yes, Disney Plus has several exclusive documentaries that are not available on any other platform. Some examples include “Into the Unknown: Making Frozen 2,” “Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom,” and “Cosmos: Possible Worlds.”
Can I suggest a documentary for Disney Plus to add to their collection?
While Disney Plus does not have a direct way to suggest documentaries for their collection, you can contact their customer service team or submit feedback through their website to make your suggestions known. Additionally, Disney Plus is constantly adding new content to their platform, so keep an eye out for new documentaries periodically.
Can I watch Disney Plus documentaries if I don’t have a subscription?
You do need a subscription to Disney Plus in order to watch the documentaries on the platform. However, Disney Plus offers a free trial period for new subscribers, which can be a great way to test out the platform and explore their documentary collection.
Are there any documentaries on Disney Plus that are not in English?
Yes, Disney Plus offers a range of documentaries in languages other than English, including Spanish, French, German, Italian, and more. You can select your preferred language by changing the language settings on the platform.
Did you know that Disney Plus is home to some of the best documentaries available for streaming? It’s definitely not what they are most known for, but it’s true. From nature documentaries to behind-the-scenes looks at the world of Disney, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The 15 best documentaries on Disney Plus offer a great starting point for anyone looking to explore this incredible selection of content. So why not settle in, grab some popcorn, and start exploring the fascinating world of documentaries on Disney Plus today? With so much great content available, you’re sure to find something that captures your imagination and keeps you coming back for more.