Raya and the Last Dragon (2021), directed by Don Hall and Carlos López Estrada, is an epic animated adventure from Walt Disney Animation Studios. Set in the fictional Southeast Asian-inspired kingdom of Kumandra, it tells the story of Raya, a skilled young warrior determined to find the last dragon, Sisu, and save her world from an ancient evil known as the Druun. The Druun turns people and dragons into stone, threatening the peaceful lands of Kumandra, which were once united. With the fate of her realm hanging in the balance, Raya embarks on a perilous journey to reunite the fractured kingdoms of Kumandra and restore hope by harnessing the power of the last dragon.

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Story and Themes:

The core theme of Raya and the Last Dragon revolves around trust, unity, and the power of hope in the face of overwhelming adversity. The kingdom of Kumandra was once a united land, with each region corresponding to a dragon’s power. However, after the betrayal and fragmentation of the different kingdoms, each region has become isolated and distrustful of the others. Raya’s journey is as much about physical adventure as it is about learning to trust others and overcoming the deep-rooted divides between people. This message resonates strongly in today’s world, where societal division and mistrust are often challenges that need to be faced.

The movie explores forgiveness, the consequences of betrayal, and the healing power of vulnerability. Raya, initially reluctant to trust anyone after a traumatic experience with a betrayal by someone close to her, learns that healing and progress only happen when people work together. These themes are deeply human and are handled in a way that children can understand while still offering rich material for older viewers to contemplate.

Characters and Performances:

The character of Raya is a standout in the film. Voiced by Kelly Marie Tran, Raya is intelligent, resourceful, and brave, yet also deeply flawed, struggling with her anger and distrust. Her arc of growth, learning to trust others, is compelling and relatable. Tran’s voice work brings the character to life, offering both strength and vulnerability.

Sisu, the last dragon, voiced by Awkwafina, offers a lighter, comedic counterbalance to the more serious tone of the film. Sisu’s playful, quirky personality adds a layer of fun to the adventure. Her character also represents themes of hope and belief, and as the story unfolds, Sisu proves to be more than just comic relief; she plays an integral role in Raya’s journey.

The supporting cast features a diverse group of characters, each representing a different region of Kumandra. From Boun (a resourceful, kind-hearted boy) to Tong (a mighty warrior with a heart of gold), each character adds depth to the narrative, and their relationships with Raya help her learn about trust and teamwork.

Animation and Visuals:

Raya and the Last Dragon is visually stunning, with the animation team at Disney delivering some of the most breathtaking sequences in recent years. The world of Kumandra is vibrant and beautifully realized, with lush landscapes, sweeping mountains, and shimmering water that bring the fictional world to life. The design of the dragons, especially Sisu, is creatively imaginative, blending the fantastical with elements of nature, making them appear otherworldly yet rooted in the environment around them.

The action scenes are fast-paced and engaging, with Raya’s martial arts skills and swordplay beautifully choreographed. There’s a strong sense of fluidity and grace in the animation, particularly in the scenes where Raya interacts with Sisu or fights off the Druun. The film’s color palette plays a huge role in setting the tone for each region of Kumandra, with warm, earthy tones for the heartland and cool, mystical hues for the water-based kingdom.

Music and Soundtrack:

The soundtrack, composed by James Newton Howard, complements the tone of the film beautifully, enhancing both the action and emotional beats. The score blends traditional orchestral sounds with elements inspired by Southeast Asian music, creating a rich, immersive experience that fits the cultural backdrop of the film.

While the score is notable, the film’s lack of standout songs, unlike other Disney classics, might make it feel less memorable in the musical department. However, the emotional weight of the film is carried by the storytelling and the performances of the cast, rather than through the music alone.

Criticism:

While Raya and the Last Dragon is widely praised for its animation, voice acting, and positive messages, it’s not without its criticisms. Some viewers feel that certain elements of the plot, particularly the way the kingdoms are portrayed as divided, could have been explored more deeply. The final resolution, though emotional, might seem a bit too neat and convenient for some, as it ties up the story in a way that leaves little room for ambiguity or a more complex resolution. Additionally, Sisu’s transformation from a somewhat goofy, unreliable figure to a heroic dragon might feel abrupt to some, even though the character’s evolution is part of the larger narrative of growth and trust.

Conclusion:

Raya and the Last Dragon is an exceptional animated film that blends breathtaking visuals with a heartfelt story about trust, unity, and redemption. It is a powerful message for audiences of all ages, especially in a time when division and mistrust are widespread. The film’s world-building is impressive, and the voice cast, particularly Kelly Marie Tran and Awkwafina, delivers memorable performances. Though it might not have the same iconic musical moments as other Disney films, its emotional depth, strong characters, and vibrant animation make it a standout in Disney’s recent lineup.

Overall, Raya and the Last Dragon is an engaging, visually stunning film with a meaningful story that should resonate with audiences long after the credits roll.