After Disney by Neil O'Brien: Book Review

Notably I don’t read much Non-Fiction, but being a complete Disney die-hard I had to pick this up. I am more of a Disney Park adult than I am into their animations and films, but they sort of go hand in hand. This was a fascinating journey into the Walt Disney Company following the death of their fearless leader and one-of-a-kind visionary, Walter Disney himself.

Full of drama, behind the scenes politics and the rise of one of the most notable entertainment powerhouses in the world, After Disney explores the time from 1966 - present day, and how two of Walt’s family members ended up neck and neck to take over ownership of the film studios. Walt’s son-in-law Ron, and his nephew, Roy - both grew up groomed to take on the family business one day.

But such as in all good Hollywood stories, things don’t go as planned, economies crash, film industries crumble, and politics stand in the way of what Walt ultimately desired all Disney films, parks, and projects to encapsulate - magic and family fun.

I loved hearing about the unsung heroes of Disney films, and learning more about the start of some well known talents, like Eric Larson (animator of Winnie the Pooh), Marc Davies (responsible for the character design in the Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion attractions at Disneyland) and the more recognisably household name - Tim Burton, who needs no introduction.

It was a fascinating read, and one my fond Disney loving heart really enjoyed. If I didn’t already have an upcoming trip to Disneyland, it might have made me book one.