
On September 2nd, WUCF hosted a preview of “American Experience: Walt Disney” where audience members were able to view extended clips of the upcoming biography. The video footage was followed by a panel discussion with Executive Producer, Mark Samels and Managing Director, James Dunford as interviewed by Lou Mongello of WDW Radio.
I attended the free event and was captivated by the movie clips. As a huge fan of the man, I am no stranger to Walter E. Disney, but not an expert either. I saw several things in the movie that I have never seen or read before. It’s full of rare footage from Disney archives, scenes from his greatest films, and interviews from people that worked alongside him.
“American Experience” has a reputation for producing quality, in-depth biographies from years of research. For the Disney episode, the show’s creators were granted unprecedented access to the Disney archives with no requirements for editorial input from the Walt Disney Company.
This well-researched documentary will appeal to history buffs and Walt Disney fans of all ages. Very young children aren’t the intended audience, but I don’t feel that it’s inappropriate for them. I just don’t believe the film will hold their interest…at least not for the full four hours. If your child has a keen interest in Walt Disney, I see no reason to keep them from viewing it.
Both parts 1 and 2 will air several times in September and also be available for viewing online at http://www.wucftv.org. The DVD can be obtained there as well.
Let me know what you thought!