How Disney+ Built America: A Behind-the-Scenes Look

Disney+’s “America Built by… “ series (often referred to as “Built for America” or “America Built by”) meticulously crafts each episode by blending historical research, dramatic recreations, expert interviews, and compelling storytelling. The process revolves around identifying a central figure or industry that profoundly shaped American society, then weaving a narrative that balances informative content with engaging entertainment. This recipe ensures a blend of historical accuracy, captivating visuals, and dramatic flair, making the series a success among audiences interested in history and innovation. Let’s delve deeper into the process.

The Anatomy of an Episode: A Deep Dive

The making of a “America Built by…” episode follows a carefully orchestrated process that spans several months and involves a dedicated team of historians, writers, producers, directors, actors, and post-production specialists. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Conception and Research

The initial stage involves identifying a compelling subject. This could be an individual (e.g., Henry Ford, Walt Disney, John Pemberton), an industry (e.g., airlines, fast food, soft drinks), or a specific technological advancement (e.g., automobiles, airplanes). What ties all the subjects together is their significant, transformative effect on American culture, economy, and lifestyle.

Once a subject is chosen, the research phase commences. Historians and researchers delve into archives, libraries, and other primary and secondary sources to gather as much information as possible about the subject’s life, work, and impact. This includes biographical details, business records, technical specifications, contemporary accounts, and relevant social and political contexts. This exhaustive research forms the backbone of the entire episode.

2. Scripting and Storyboarding

With a wealth of research material in hand, the writing team crafts a narrative script. The script doesn’t just recite historical facts; it aims to tell a compelling story with a clear beginning, middle, and end. The writers identify key moments and turning points in the subject’s life or the industry’s development, framing them as dramatic scenes that can be visually recreated. Dialogue is often based on actual quotes or informed by historical context to maintain authenticity.

Concurrently, storyboards are created to visualize the key scenes and sequences. These storyboards serve as a roadmap for the director and cinematographers, helping them plan camera angles, shot compositions, and overall visual style.

3. Casting and Filming

The casting process involves finding actors who can convincingly portray historical figures. The actors not only need to resemble the real people physically but also capture their personality, mannerisms, and spirit.

Filming typically takes place on location or in meticulously recreated sets. The production team strives for historical accuracy in every detail, from costumes and props to architecture and technology. Dramatic recreations are carefully staged and filmed using professional actors and state-of-the-art equipment. The show typically uses high-quality cameras and cinematography to capture stunning visuals that immerse the audience in the story.

4. Expert Interviews

Expert interviews play a crucial role in providing context, analysis, and deeper insights into the subject. Historians, biographers, industry experts, and other specialists are interviewed on camera to offer their perspectives and interpretations. These interviews add credibility and depth to the narrative, ensuring that the episode is both informative and engaging. The show also uses archival footage and photographs to illustrate the subject’s impact.

5. Post-Production

The post-production phase involves editing the raw footage, adding music and sound effects, and incorporating graphics and visual effects. The editor weaves together the dramatic recreations, expert interviews, and archival footage into a cohesive and compelling narrative. Music and sound effects enhance the emotional impact of the scenes, while graphics and visual effects help to illustrate complex concepts and timelines. Color correction and grading are also applied to create a consistent and visually appealing look.

6. Fact-Checking and Legal Review

Before the episode is released, it undergoes a rigorous fact-checking process. Historians and researchers review the final cut to ensure that all the information presented is accurate and supported by evidence. The episode also undergoes a legal review to ensure that it complies with copyright laws and other legal requirements. The show is committed to historical accuracy and ensuring that the information presented is truthful and verifiable.

7. Marketing and Distribution

Finally, the episode is marketed and distributed through Disney+ and other platforms. Marketing campaigns often highlight the dramatic recreations, expert interviews, and historical significance of the subject.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about the “America Built by…” series.

1. How do you choose the subjects for each episode?

The selection process prioritizes figures and industries that have had a significant and lasting impact on American society. Factors considered include historical importance, cultural relevance, and the potential for a compelling narrative.

2. How much research goes into each episode?

Each episode involves hundreds of hours of research, utilizing primary sources, historical archives, and expert consultations to ensure accuracy and depth.

3. How do you ensure historical accuracy in the recreations?

Historical consultants and researchers are involved throughout the production process, ensuring that costumes, sets, props, and dialogue are authentic and accurate to the period.

4. Who are the experts interviewed in the series?

The series features leading historians, biographers, industry experts, and scholars who provide context, analysis, and insights into the subject matter.

5. Where is the series filmed?

Filming locations vary depending on the subject, but often include historical sites, museums, and recreated sets that evoke the time period being depicted.

6. How long does it take to produce one episode?

The production timeline for each episode can range from several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the subject and the availability of resources.

7. What kind of visual effects are used in the series?

The series utilizes visual effects to enhance historical accuracy and storytelling, including recreating historical events, illustrating technological advancements, and adding depth to the dramatic recreations.

8. How do you balance historical accuracy with entertainment value?

The series strives to strike a balance between historical accuracy and entertainment value by telling compelling stories with engaging visuals and dramatic recreations, while maintaining a commitment to factual accuracy.

9. Is there a particular target audience for the series?

The series appeals to a broad audience interested in history, innovation, and American culture. It aims to be informative and engaging for both casual viewers and serious history buffs.

10. How has the series been received by audiences and critics?

The series has generally been well-received by audiences and critics, who have praised its historical accuracy, compelling storytelling, and high production values.

11. What sets this series apart from other historical documentaries?

The “America Built by…” series stands out for its blend of dramatic recreations, expert interviews, and high-quality production values, creating a more immersive and engaging viewing experience compared to traditional documentaries.

12. Are there plans for future episodes or spin-offs?

While specific plans are not always publicly announced, the success of the “America Built by…” series suggests that future episodes and spin-offs are likely, continuing to explore the individuals and industries that have shaped American society. Disney+ is always looking to expand its offerings and content library.

In conclusion, the “America Built by…” series on Disney+ owes its success to a meticulous and multi-faceted production process. By combining rigorous research, compelling storytelling, expert insights, and high-quality production values, the series delivers a captivating and informative exploration of the figures and industries that have shaped America. This blend of education and entertainment has made the series a popular choice for viewers of all ages.