7 Best Documentaries on Disney Plus to Stream When You Are Bored!

Disney Plus has loads of really interesting documentaries that cover all sorts of cool stuff. From amazing adventures in nature to secrets behind making movies, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the best documentaries on Disney Plus and discover the awesome stories and amazing people waiting for us to watch!

best documentaries Disney plus post of the space race showing a black man surrounded by the moon

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The Imagineering Story

The documentary “The Imagineering Story” explores the world behind the magic of Disney theme parks. This behind-the-scenes look reveals the challenges that go into creating the beloved theme park destinations. Despite the “mud, sweat, and fears,” a unique group called Imagineers – a blend of artists and engineers – have been the driving force for nearly 70 years. The documentary follows their dedication that has turned Walt Disney’s vision into global destinations that have millions of fans. Directed by the Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Leslie Iwerks, this documentary offers unprecedented access to Walt Disney Imagineering, the secretive design and development center responsible for bringing Disney’s parks to life around the world.

Best Documentary For: Disney theme park enthusiasts, history buffs, and those fascinated by the intersection of art, technology, and storytelling.

Elephant

Perhaps the best Disney Nature documentary on Disney Plus, “Elephant” is a perfect choice for family entertainment.

In “Elephant” African elephant Shani and her son Jomo embark on an epic journey across the Kalahari Desert, leading their herd in search of water and food. As one of the last remaining herds to tackle a long migration, their trek is filled with challenges and dangers, from dwindling water sources to predatory wildlife. Guided by the wisdom of their matriarch Gaia, they navigate ancient elephant paths and confront formidable obstacles, including crocodile-infested rivers and lion territory. Their epic voyage is a testament to the resilience and strength of elephants and mirrors the family bond that humans have.

Narrated by Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, “Elephant” follows a family of elephants as they embark on a journey across the Kalahari Desert in search of water. The stunning visuals and heartwarming narrative offer a poignant exploration of family bonds and the challenges of wildlife survival.

Best Documentary For: Nature lovers, conservationists, and families looking for an educational and visually stunning documentary

The Space Race

The Space Race delves into a hidden chapter of history: the competition to launch the first Black astronaut into space. This story unfolds amidst the tensions of the Cold War, where the US, Russia, and even Cuba were all entangled in a web of political manipulation and racial issues. Often referred to as the “final battleground” of the Cold War, the documentary features interviews with three Black astronauts who were caught in the middle of this ideological fight, used as pawns in a larger global struggle.

Best Documentary For: History buffs, those interested in the Civil Rights Movement, Space exploration fans

For a full spoiler-free review of The Space Race go here.

Free Solo

We consider “Free Solo” to be the best documentary on Disney Plus, simply for its stunning visuals.

This documentary chronicles the insane attempt by professional climber Alex Honnold to achieve a lifelong dream: free solo climbing El Capitan. El Capitan is a huge rock wall in Yosemite National Park, towering over 3,200 feet. Free solo climbing refers to the ascent of a climb without the use of ropes or safety gear, making even a single misstep potentially fatal.

Filmmakers E. Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin capture the meticulous training, mental focus, and inherent danger of Honnold’s audacious undertaking, offering a gripping portrait of one man’s quest to push the limits of human achievement.

Best Documentary for: Adventure enthusiasts, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone interested in extreme sports or human achievement

folklore: the long pond studio sessions

This documentary, titled “folklore: the long pond studio sessions,” offers a unique look at Taylor Swift’s critically acclaimed album, “folklore.” Filmed in the intimate setting of Long Pond Studios, the program features Swift performing all the songs from the album live. Swift is joined by her co-producers Aaron Dessner and Jack Antonoff, creating a truly special musical experience. The documentary goes beyond just the music, though.

Swift and her collaborators delve into the creative process behind each song, discussing the inspiration and meaning behind the lyrics. They also share the challenges and triumphs of working remotely to create this award-winning album.

Best Documentary for: Taylor Swift fans, General music enthusiasts

Polar Bear

Narrated by Catherine Keener, Disneynature’s “Polar Bear” follows the journey of a new mother polar bear as she navigates the challenges of motherhood in a rapidly changing environment. Directed by Alastair Fothergill and Jeff Wilson and produced by Fothergill, Wilson, and Roy Conli, the film offers an intimate and compelling look into the life of these e creatures as they adapt to survive in the face of environmental threats.

“Polar Bear” is compelling because as a view you are rooting for the mother and her cubs to simply survive the hardships caused by climate change.

Best Documentary for: Nature lovers, conservationists, and families looking for an educational and visually stunning documentary

Click for a spoiler-free review of Polar Bear.

Summer of Soul

This documentary, titled “Summer of Soul,” uncovers lost footage from a major music festival celebrating Black culture that took place in Harlem in 1969. Directed by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, the film combines live music performances by legendary artists like Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, and Sly & the Family Stone with historical context.