New documentary ‘Disneyland Handcrafter’ premieres on Disney+
Disney fans behold: “Disneyland Handcrafted,” a new documentary from producer and director Leslie Iwerks, premieres – and is available to stream – on January 22 on Disney+ and Disney YouTube. Comprised of rare archival footage and original audio recordings, the film gives viewers a glimpse into the magic of Walt Disney’s dream and the extraordinary artistry and courage it took to create The Happiest Place on Earth.
Disneyland has been around for over 70 years. But Disney wasn’t built in a day, and ‘Disneyland Handcrafted’ tells the story of how the park grew into the iconic place it is today, prior to its opening on July 17, 1955. Using newly unearthed material from the Walt Disney Archives, Iwerks and her team uncovered previously forgotten 16mm film reels and audio recordings that aim to transport audiences to the tumultuous year before the park’s founding, exploring both the legacy and the capturing nostalgia that came before. until the creation of the Disneyland Resort.
First-hand accounts from the artists, artisans, and Imagineers who were there also provide insight into the park’s creation, providing a fly-on-the-wall perspective that aims to capture what really happened behind the scenes.
Iwerks himself also has a special bond with Disney; she is the daughter of Don Iwerks, a former Disney executive, and the granddaughter of Ub Iwerks, the animator and co-creator behind Mickey Mouse. Her previous projects include “The Imagineering Story,” “The Pixar Story,” and “League of Legends: Origins.”
SPECIALS
ABC News’ year-end special “What You Need to Know: 2025” premieres exclusively on Disney+.
The special episode, hosted by correspondents James Longman and Rachel Scott, highlights memorable stories that defined the year.
“In less than 15 minutes, we put together the stories people couldn’t escape in a way that’s unique to ‘What You Need to Know,’” Longman and Scott said in a joint statement. “As we sign off, we hope viewers will feel a little more informed and hopeful and reminded that even in a whirlwind of headlines, we are all in this story together.”
From global reporting and politics to pop culture headlines and viral videos, ‘What You Need to Know: 2025’ will break down the biggest moments in under 15 minutes.
“What You Need to Know” launched in July 2025, with morning episodes streaming exclusively on Disney+ and expanded to twice-daily episodes in July, so viewers can follow the biggest stories and headlines as they continue to develop. It is ABC News’ first daily streaming news series exclusively for Disney+.
PROGRAMMING
Turner Classic Movies honors the life and career of filmmaker Rob Reiner with a programming tribute to his most popular films on January 28, 2026.
“The deep sense of loss we all feel is amplified by Rob’s exalted status in Hollywood; he was universally loved within the entertainment industry,” TCM host Ben Mankiewicz said in a statement.
He continued, “I didn’t know him as well as I would have liked, but he always made me feel like we had been friends for decades. Rob’s character was defined by the qualities we see in those films: kindness, decency, humor, compassion and, above all, a belief in humanity.”
The tribute will culminate with a special premiere presentation of “The Princess Bride,” followed by “When Harry Met Sally,” “Stand By Me” and “This Is Spinal Tap.”
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The documentary ‘Roads of Fire’ has set a TVOD release date and will be available on Amazon, Apple TV and Fandango at Home starting January 6.
“Roads of Fire,” directed by Nathaniel Lezra, provides a glimpse into human trafficking and migration, following three different stories of individuals and groups on dangerous journeys to future freedom.
The film won Best Documentary at the 2025 Santa Barbara International Film Festival, the Audience Award at the Brooklyn Film Festival, and Best Cinematography at the Pacific Northwest Documentary Showcase.
The TVOD release marks the film’s first nationwide digital availability following its limited theatrical and festival runs.
PARTNERSHIPS
Los Angeles-based Fox duopoly KTTV Fox 11 and KCOP Fox 11+ have been named official media partners of the Los Angeles Sports and Entertainment Commission, the company announced Thursday. As an official partner, the stations and their digital property, Fox Local, will cover major events with a focus on the upcoming FIFA World Cup 26 and Super Bowl LXI in 2027.
“We are proud to welcome Fox 11 as our official media partner at a time when Los Angeles prepares to host some of the world’s most iconic events,” Kathryn Schloessman, president and CEO of the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission, said in a statement. “With their support, we can recognize the organizations that make this all possible and celebrate the unique opportunities our region has over the next three years.”
Through exclusive access, in-depth reporting and behind-the-scenes event content, Fox 11 will provide Angelenos with compelling content across digital, broadcast and social platforms, with a special focus on showcasing the ways Los Angeles residents can be part of the major events coming to their city.
“We are honored to partner with LASEC during this historic and exciting year for Los Angeles and to provide Angelenos with a backstage pass to the most prestigious events and sports taking place locally and on the global stage,” said Amber Eikel, senior vice president and regional general manager of Fox Los Angeles and San Francisco duopolies, in a statement. “We are ready to shine a light on our communities and celebrate every momentous occasion leading up to, during and after the World Cup and Super Bowl.”
