Waking Sleeping Beauty showed up a few weeks ago as a recommendation for me on Netflix, so I quickly added it to my DVD queue because it seemed like a documentary I would enjoy. And enjoy it I did.
There’s a lot about Disney and their animation department that I never knew or would have imagined by simply watching these films as a child. I remember being so captivated by and obsessed with The Little Mermaid when I first watched it. To this day it is still my favorite film, and I’m not ashamed to say so, especially after viewing this documentary.
It’s surprising that this film was made and released, with Disney’s tight-lipped reputation and of keeping everything behind the scenes, but I’m grateful for the glimpse into the lives and hard work of the men and women who helped make Disney, well, Disney. I laughed, I cried (more than I’m willing to admit), and was completely enthralled with this story. I find myself appreciating the Disney company much more now, as well as the talented individuals behind this major comeback (including the charming Howard Ashman, the man behind “Part of Your World” and other amazing lyrics).
Waking Sleeping Beauty is available for DVD purchase from Amazon.com here.
