The 2001 biographical documentary film Walt: The Man Behind the Myth follows the highlights of Walt Disney’s entire life. It is narrated by Dick Van Dyke and was put together under the supervision of Disney’s family.

Born Walter Elias Disney on December 5, 1901 in Chicago, Illinois, Disney was one of several children. When Walt was young the family moved to a farm in Marceline, Missouri. Disney’s midwest rural upbringing vastly influenced his life and work. The film portrays his family including the tragic death of his mother.

Disney’s empire began when he conceived the character of a mouse he was going to name Mortimer. Thankfully his wife Lillian suggested Mickey instead.

Over fifty individuals were interviewed for the documentary, many of whom knew Disney personally. Filmmakers, historians, and authors were also consulted. Buddy Ebsen delivers a particularly heartfelt tribute. Former Mouseketeers Sharon Baird, Bobby Burgess, and Kevin Corcoran, and actress Karen Dotrice also contribute.

Author Ray Bradbury appears a few times. In the first clip he tells how at around nine years old he sat through a truly dreadful movie just to see Disney’s short cartoon “The Skeleton Dance” repeatedly until his father finally had to drag him out of the theater. He also discusses Disney’s remarkable creative vision.

Released on September 16, 2001, a bit ahead of Disney’s centennial, the film is unique in including previously unreleased home movie footage. Disney’s daughter Diane Disney Miller discusses her personal memories. The film is a mostly positive look at Disney’s life. It especially focuses on debunking negative rumors about Disney, such as accusations of racism and antisemitism. It doesn’t hide the fact that he testified before the House Un-American Activities Committee that he believed people who went on strike for better wages were Communists. (This footage jumped, that is wavered up and down, and would have benefited from some sort of stabilization. The rest of the footage was good quality.)

The film was released in several formats, at 86 minutes for television and VHS, 119 minutes on DVD, and 117 minutes on Blu-ray. I recommend the longer version, which can be found on YouTube. It touches on many major highlights of Disney’s life and accomplishments.

This is an inspirational project which I recommend for all ages.