Stolen Kingdom (2025)

-Written by Kyle Bain.

2025 SLAMDANCE FILM FESTIVAL REVIEW!

The history of Walt Disney World is steeped in magic and wonderment, but there’s a dark side to its history as well. Stolen Kingdom looks to bring to light the tumultuous history of the Disney parks and the urban explorers that traverse the dilapidated past of the billion dollar parks. 

Almost immediately, Stolen Kingdom runs the risk of aggravating viewers, of forcing us to see those showcased throughout the documentary in a negative light. How do we look past the indiscretions of those seen on screen? How do we accept that these individuals have effectively dedicated themselves to a life of crime, one that has the potential to hinder the beautiful and vibrant experiences of those traveling to Disney World? I’m not entirely sure that we can, but Stolen Kingdom manages to develop something that sees us looking past these irresponsibilities, excited to hear more of their stories. 

Stolen Kingdom, a documentary full of motley crew of individuals, manages to capture the magic that exists to millions of people who travel to Disney properties each year. Just about everyone on screen views Disney in a different light than those that are willing to spend thousands of dollars to vacation in the most magical place on earth. They have a jaded view of the place, and they look at the massive property as a different opportunity–one for social and financial gain. Part of me (the “pixie duster” as mentioned in Stolen Kingdom) is appalled at what many of these unique individuals have done throughout their lives, stealing bits of magic from a place of solace. However, the more curious part of me is sort of intrigued by what they are willing to do, what they are willing to risk. 

There’s not much more to dissect when it comes to Stolen Kingdom; it’s a straightforward documentary that takes us behind the scenes of Disney World in ways that most people won’t experience in their lifetime. The passion is clear, the motives are clear–and by the end of the film I found a niche corner of Disney that I just might continue to explore going forward. 

Directed by Joshua Bailey. 

Starring Dan Bell, Matt Sonswa, Kenny Johnson, Dan Becker, Patrick Spikes, etc. 

7/10 = WATCH IT FOR FREE