Disney’s newest animated feature, “Raya and the Last Dragon,” is a high-octane adventure that features strong women, a complex mythology, and beautiful South East Asian environments that are bigger than life. The combined elements set the tone for an adventure few Disney characters have gone before.
Raya (Kelly Marie Tran) goes on a quest to unite the land of Kumandra. The once-prosperous kingdom was divided into five territories after dragons had been eradicated, exposing the divided inhabitants to the Druun, formless creatures that turn living things into stone. Raya’s father (Daniel Dae Kim), ruler of the area known as the Heart and guardian of the last dragon’s gemstone, believes that the five kingdoms can be united through hope and good faith.
During her quest, Raya finds the last dragon named Sisu (Awkwafina) who offers a humorous way of looking at life. Together, they go on a perilous journey to save their world and along the way, befriend others who have also suffered because of the Druun.
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The film’s tone may have more in common with a Marvel film than it’s animated predecessors. There are no songs or dance production numbers used to help create character development. Instead, action sequences underscore the nature of the film. Raya’s quest to unite the five kingdoms shrouded in conflict is a wonderful backdrop for her coming-of-age story.
“Raya and the Last Dragon” is surprisingly relevant in an age when division is commonplace. The reasons why the kingdom of Kumandra became divided can serve as a reminder that assumptions can lead to conflict, even where conflict isn’t necessary. The film also explores themes of betrayal, which plays a key motivation in moving the story forward.
There are times when the film could have benefitted from slowing the pace down. While “Raya and the Last Dragon” is solid and does a good job of explaining the kingdom’s mythology, we seldom get treated to moments of emotional connection with the characters. When these moments are on screen, they sometimes pass by at a rapid speed without giving the audience a chance to feel the characters’ emotions.
A Leap in Animation
“Raya and the Last Dragon” continues the tradition of Disney’s ability to tell a story through character animation, production design, and attention to detail that creates a truly believable world. What makes “Raya and the Last Dragon” an animated marvel is the animators’ use of squash and stretch – a contrasting change of shape that creates a feeling of fleshiness and flexibility – to heighten the rapid character movements.
The high-octane action sequences reveal sophisticated animation that looks natural, which is a leap forward from Disney’s previous films, like “Frozen” and “Moana.” The adrenaline-rich fighting sequences, peppered with the full range of motion, or amplitude, of every punch and kick will have the younger set jumping on their feet.
“Raya and the Last Dragon” releases today on Disney+ and in theaters. But, it should be noted that the film’s visual storytelling is better suited for a large screen. The grandeur of the lush environments and sweeping camera movements really takes advantage of the format, a cinematic feast for the eyes. But with so many theaters currently closed, Disney+ Premiere Access is likely your best bet for experiencing Disney’s latest animated feature.
There are instances when the themes of discord may, at times, feel heavy-handed, but it is balanced with thoughtful dialogue that brings Raya’s journey back to hopeful tones. The film’s message is unique in what that it reminds us that life isn’t always about being right; it can also be surprisingly beautiful when you allow yourself to trust others in a fragile environment.
Raya and the Last Dragon will be available on 4K Ultra HD™, Blu-ray™ and DVD
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ epic adventure “Raya and the Last Dragon” arrives on all major digital platforms beginning April 2, and on 4K Ultra HD™, Blu-ray™ and DVD beginning May 18. Consumers can enjoy never-before-seen bonus footage and deleted scenes in stunning Ultra HD quality and Dolby Audio.
“Raya and the Last Dragon” is directed by Don Hall (“Big Hero 6,” “Moana”) and Carlos López Estrada (“Blindspotting”), and is written by Qui Nguyen and Adele Lim. The film also stars Izaac Wang, Gemma Chan, Benedict Wong, Sandra Oh, Thalia Tran, Lucille Soong, and Alan Tudyk. The film is rated PG and the running time is 1 hour 54 minutes.
Let’s Hear From You
Have you and/or your young ones been looking forward to Raya and the Last Dragon? Will you watch it on Disney+ Premiere Access for $29.99, wait for it to be added at no additional cost to the streamer’s catalogue in June, try to see it in a theater, or skip it entirely?
And this being a Disney film, you can now bring the movie home with oodles of Raya movie merchandise. Our own Natalie Kipper fills you in on all the details:
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