Pete's Dragon

Pete's Dragon, a fantasy-adventure film from 2016, masterfully combines the magic of Disney's storytelling with the charm of a touching and heartfelt tale. Director David Lowery brings to life a timeless narrative of friendship, family, and courage with great finesse and sensitivity. The film features an impressive cast led by Bryce Dallas Howard, Robert Redford, young Oakes Fegley and more.

The narrative revolves around Pete, an orphan boy played by Oakes Fegley whose nuanced performance offers an engaging empathy and honesty. Set in the verdant nooks and crannies of the Pacific Northwest, Pete’s narrative unfolds amidst towering trees, winding rivers, and expansive mountains creating a rich and enchanting visual experience that amplifies the magical realism of the storyline.

Pete's life takes an extraordinary turn when he meets and befriends a fierce but friendly dragon named Elliot. Elliot, expertly rendered by the adept animation team and seamlessly integrated into the live-action setting, is a green, furry, winged dragon with the ability to become invisible. Elliot shares an unbreakable bond with Pete, becoming his protector and confidante. This dragon is not solely a figment of fantasy, but represents the indomitable spirit of adventure, the magic of childhood imaginations, and the powerful ties of friendship that transcend the bounds of the ordinary.

Bryce Dallas Howard plays forest ranger Grace, whose heart jumps to the beats of the wild, and whose life gets intertwined with Pete's inextricably. Her character’s open-mindedness, compassion, and motherly affection epitomize the warmth and radiance she brings to the film. She's the adult who starts to believe, emphasizing the importance of trust, hope, and faith in the unseen.

Robert Redford shines as Grace's father, an old storyteller named Meacham, who exudes rustic charm and wisdom. His tales of a mythical dragon living in the woods lend a whimsical quality to the narrative. When these realms of dragons and humans collide, Meacham serves as a bridge, with his character becoming more significant as the story unfolds.

The film beautifully encapsulates the push and pull between facts seen by the eyes and truths felt by the heart. It underlines the intricate dance between reality and imagination so inherent in the fabric of childhood. And through it all, the themes of friendship, survival, trust, and home resonate profoundly, making the adventure emotionally stirring.

The cinematography is striking, capturing the depth of the forest, the serene bounding brook, and the contrast between the expansive wilderness and the small town with outstanding precision. The colour palette is expressive—lush greenery, vibrant flames, and stunning azure skies add to the visual grandness and emotional resonance of the story.

The music by Daniel Hart complements the storyline, with an inspired, heartfelt score that enhances the emotional quotient of the film and beautifully carries forward the narrative. From tender, soulful moments to high-intensity sequences, the music remains a faithful ally to the story, subtly underlining its charm and ushering in moments of enchantment or suspense.

Featured are exceptional performances by the young actors, including Oakes Fegley as Pete and Oona Laurence as Natalie, a local girl who becomes instrumental in Pete's life. Their innocence, vulnerability, and courage shine brightly in their performances lending a level of believability to their interactions with the CGI-animated Elliot.

Pete's Dragon is a film that distills the essence of innocent childhood fantasies, the belief in magic, and the power of unyielding friendship. It's a captivating, heartwarming story that speaks of unwavering faith and love – one that beautifully balances its narrative on the spectrum of reality and imagination. With its compelling characters, evocative visual storytelling, intimate direction, and heart tougching performances, it is a film that resonates emotionally and visually with audiences of all ages. It's a must-see for anyone seeking a humble, enchanting, and poignant cinematic experience.