Raya and the Last Dragon (Full Movie 2021)
Raya and the Last Dragon (2021): A Vibrant Disney Adventure with Heart
Raya and the Last Dragon (2021), directed by Don Hall and Carlos López Estrada, is a visually stunning Disney animated film that blends Southeast Asian-inspired mythology with a heartfelt story of trust and unity. Released on March 5, 2021, and featuring Kelly Marie Tran as the voice of Raya, the film delivers a thrilling action-adventure with a strong female lead and a powerful message. While its ambitious world-building and emotional depth shine, a crowded narrative holds it back from perfection. Here’s a closer look at this bold addition to Disney’s animated legacy.
Plot Summary
Set in the fictional land of Kumandra, where humans and dragons once coexisted, Raya and the Last Dragon follows Raya, a warrior princess from the Heart tribe. After a betrayal fractures Kumandra into five warring lands and unleashes the Druun—evil spirits that turn people to stone—Raya embarks on a quest to find Sisu (Awkwafina), the last dragon, to restore a magical gem and save her petrified father (Daniel Dae Kim). Joined by a colorful crew, including a con-baby and a gruff warrior, Raya navigates distrust and danger to unite the tribes and defeat the Druun, learning that hope lies in rebuilding broken bonds.
Strengths of the Film
Stunning Visuals and World-Building
Inspired by Southeast Asian cultures (including Thai, Vietnamese, and Malaysian influences), Kumandra is a breathtaking tapestry of lush jungles, neon-lit deserts, and misty rivers. Disney’s animation team crafts distinct aesthetics for each tribe—Heart’s bamboo temples, Fang’s floating markets—making the world feel alive. The action sequences, like Raya’s sword fights and Sisu’s dragon acrobatics, are fluid and thrilling, showcasing Disney’s technical prowess with a $150 million budget.
Strong Voice Cast and Chemistry
Kelly Marie Tran infuses Raya with grit and vulnerability, making her a compelling heroine who balances strength with doubt. Awkwafina’s Sisu steals scenes with her quirky, optimistic energy, providing comic relief and heart. Supporting voices, including Gemma Chan as rival Namaari, Izaac Wang as young Boun, and Sandra Oh as Virana, add depth to the ensemble. The group’s banter and evolving bonds create a warm, found-family dynamic.
Empowering Themes
The film’s message of trust, forgiveness, and unity resonates deeply, especially in a divided world. Raya’s journey from lone warrior to team player underscores the power of collaboration, while the Southeast Asian-inspired storytelling honors collectivist values. Critics praised its timely themes and strong female leads, with Raya and Namaari offering nuanced portrayals of strength and redemption.
Weaknesses and Criticisms
Overcrowded Narrative
At 107 minutes, Raya packs in too many characters and subplots, leading to a rushed pace. The five tribes and their conflicts are introduced quickly, leaving some, like Talon and Spine, underdeveloped. Critics noted the story feels “episodic,” with Raya’s quest jumping between action set pieces without enough time to explore Kumandra’s lore or secondary characters’ backstories.
Simplified Antagonist
The Druun, while visually eerie, are a faceless threat, lacking the complexity of a traditional villain. While this keeps the focus on human conflict and trust, it makes the stakes feel less personal. Namaari’s arc as a rival-turned-ally shows promise but resolves too neatly, with some critics wishing for deeper exploration of her motivations.
Cultural Representation Concerns
While praised for its Southeast Asian influences and diverse voice cast, some critics and audiences on X felt the film’s cultural blend creates a “generic” fantasy rather than a specific homage. The lack of a predominantly Southeast Asian creative team sparked debate, though consultants from the region were involved. Some viewers wanted more cultural specificity to avoid a homogenized portrayal.
Reception and Impact
Raya and the Last Dragon earned an 94% “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes (305 reviews) with a 7.7/10 average and an 83% Popcornmeter score. Audiences gave it an A CinemaScore, reflecting broad appeal. Critics lauded its visuals, themes, and Tran’s performance, with The New York Times calling it “a rousing adventure with soul.” On X, fans celebrated its representation and action, though some noted its rushed pacing. Grossing $130 million worldwide amid a pandemic-limited release (with a Disney+ Premier Access debut), it found a wider audience on streaming. Its Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature cemented its impact.
Should You Watch It?
Raya and the Last Dragon (2021) is a visually dazzling, heartfelt Disney adventure that celebrates unity and showcases a strong, diverse cast. Its Southeast Asian-inspired world and empowering message make it a standout for families and animation fans, though its crowded story and simplified villain prevent it from rivaling Disney classics like Moana. Stream it on Disney+ for a vibrant, action-packed ride that’s both fun and meaningful, especially for those who love epic quests and cultural representation.