Peteβs Dragon (2016) is a heartfelt adventure-fantasy film by Disney, based on the 1977 animated film of the same name. Directed by David Lowery, it tells an emotional story about friendship, courage, and the meaning of family, enhanced by stunning visuals and profound messages of humanity.
The story begins with Pete, a 5-year-old boy, who loses both his parents in a car accident during a family trip. Lost in a vast and dangerous forest, Pete is unexpectedly saved by a massive green dragon with soft fur and the ability to turn invisible. The dragon, whom Pete names Elliott, becomes his companion and protector during six years of isolation from the human world. Their friendship grows strong as they share joyous and peaceful moments in the wilderness.
Everything changes when Pete, now an 11-year-old feral but resourceful boy, is discovered by Grace Meacham, a kind-hearted forest ranger. Grace, along with her boyfriend Jack and Jackβs young daughter Natalie, decides to take Pete back to the town. Gradually, Pete begins to adapt to the human world, learning to trust and love his newfound family. However, Peteβs presence inadvertently reveals Elliottβs existence, making the dragon a target for Gavin, Jackβs greedy and selfish brother, and his team of hunters.
As Gavin and his group attempt to capture Elliott to gain fame and fortune from the mythical creature, Pete is faced with a difficult choice: return to his old life in the forest with his loyal companion or stay with the new family he has grown to love. When Elliott is captured and endangered, Pete, Grace, Natalie, and the kind-hearted townsfolk band together to rescue the dragon from the hunters. Through this journey, they discover that friendship and courage can overcome any obstacle, and that differences are not something to be feared.
The film reaches its climax as Pete and Elliott team up to escape the intense pursuit in a series of thrilling yet emotional sequences. In the end, Elliott realizes that Pete needs a human family to grow and thrive, while Pete comes to understand that Elliott will always hold a special place in his heart, even if they cannot stay together.
Peteβs Dragon is not just an adventurous tale but also a powerful reminder of the importance of friendship, family, and finding where one truly belongs. Featuring excellent performances by Oakes Fegley (Pete), Bryce Dallas Howard (Grace), and breathtaking visual effects that bring Elliott to life, the film has become a modern classic, suitable for all ages and touching the hearts of audiences worldwide.
