Raya and the Last Dragon

Official Australian release date: 4/3/21. Viewed: 6/3/21.
Directors: Don Hall & Carlos Estrada
Actors: Kelly Marie Tran, Awkwafina, Izaac Wang, Gemma Chan
Genre: Fantasy / Adventure
Rating: PG

‘Raya & the Last Dragon’ is another excellent Disney Animation film (not Pixar), with strong female characters, a well-plotted story and some breathtaking animation. We’re introduced to the fantasy world of Kumandra, which is an imitation of Thailand, Cambodia, China, Malaysia and Vietnam, where benevolent dragons once lived in harmony with humans. Raya (Tran; “rie-a”, not “ray-a”) is a princess in the now-divided Kumandra, as is Namaari (Chan). To restore peace and Kumandra, Raya sets out to find the last dragon – Sisu (Awkwafina) – and the gem.

Awkwafina provides lots of the comedy as Sisu and works really well, as does Raya’s armadillo, Tuk Tuk. Along the way, Raya & Sisu are joined and helped by Boun (Wang), Tong (Wong) and some cute monkeys. Needless to say, there’s a big showdown with others that are selfishly keeping parts of the gem. Lots of great sword battles!

The pacing is great, and there’s plenty of subtle and not-so-subtle lessons laid in. Some nice character growth for Raya and Namaari. The CGI is exceptional – I don’t think kids these days appreciate it how good they have it! What they’re able to make happen on-screen is a joy to watch. Totally satisfying experience.

Overall: Visually and emotionally superb story.

Gav's Rating: 4 stars.