The film is set in the land of Kumandra, a once-united kingdom that was divided into five lands- Heart, Fang, Talon, Spine, and Tail- after an evil force known as the Druun threatened to destroy the land. Raya’s father, the Chief of the Heart land, worked to bring peace to the kingdom, but his efforts were sabotaged, leading to the shattering of a magical gem that kept the Druun at bay. This resulted in the Druun returning and turning people into stone, including Raya’s father.
Years later, Raya sets out on a mission to find Sisu, the last dragon, who can recreate the magical gem to save Kumandra and reunite the five lands. Along the way, Raya encounters a group of allies, including a young entrepreneur named Boun, a skilled warrior Tong, a toddler known as Little Noi, and her con-baby, Tuk Tuk, a creature that serves as Raya’s mount through her journey.
The movie features stunning animation and the voice talents of Awkwafina, who plays the dragon Sisu, and Kelly Marie Tran, who brings life to Raya. The movie’s soundtrack, composed by James Newton Howard, captures the film’s emotional depth and cultural background, earning critical acclaim.
What sets Raya and the Last Dragon apart from other Disney films is its representation of Southeast Asian culture. From the architecture to the food, the movie offers a unique and authentic depiction of a culturally rich and diverse region. The film also highlights the importance of community and the power of unity in overcoming adversity, values that are deeply rooted in Southeast Asian culture.
Moreover, the movie also emphasizes the aspect of trust and forgiveness. As Raya encounters Sisu, she initially does not trust the dragon and fears that Sisu is no different from the other dragons who let the kingdom fall to the Druun. However, as the story progresses, Raya learns the importance of forgiveness and the value of trusting others, even those she initially perceives as her enemies. The film delivers a critical message about trust, unity, and forgiveness that is relevant to all generations.
Raya and the Last Dragon is an enjoyable, thought-provoking, and culturally rich movie that highlights the value of trust, unity, and authenticity. It is a movie that has something to offer for viewers of all ages, races, and cultures. Its engaging storyline, stunning animation, and powerful message about the importance of forgiveness and trust make it a must-watch movie for anyone who loves animation films. While the COVID-19 pandemic led to the postponement of Raya and the Last Dragon’s theatre release, it is now available on Disney+ Premier Access, allowing audiences worldwide to experience its cultural richness and beauty from the comfort of their homes.