Raya and the Last Dragon (2021) is a breathtaking animated adventure that takes viewers on an epic journey through the mystical land of Kumandra, a once-united kingdom now fractured by distrust, division, and fear. At the heart of this compelling story is Raya (voiced by Kelly Marie Tran), a young warrior determined to restore peace to her homeland by finding the legendary last dragon, Sisu (voiced by Awkwafina), and uniting the warring tribes before an ancient evil, the Druun, destroys everything.
The world of Kumandra is beautifully rendered, with each of the five tribes—Heart, Fang, Spine, Talon, and Tail—boasting unique cultures, landscapes, and visual designs that bring the rich, mythical world to life. However, all is not well in this land. The Druun, a destructive force that turns everything it touches into stone, threatens the survival of the people. As the Druun spreads across Kumandra, Raya embarks on a perilous journey to find Sisu, the last dragon said to have the power to save her world.
Raya’s journey is not just a physical one—it’s an emotional and spiritual quest. She must learn to trust, forgive, and work together with others, despite her deep-rooted mistrust from the betrayal that fractured Kumandra. Her initial quest to find Sisu is filled with skepticism, and she’s not sure who she can trust, but over time, she learns that unity and cooperation are key to overcoming the challenges she faces. Sisu, a fun-loving, optimistic, and somewhat unpredictable dragon, is an unlikely hero, but her wisdom and innate sense of kindness prove invaluable in helping Raya and her friends navigate the perilous road ahead.
Alongside Raya is Boun (voiced by Izaac Wang), a resourceful, quick-witted young boy who has his own reasons for wanting to help save Kumandra. Together, with their growing band of allies, including Tong and Little Noi, they venture across the broken kingdom to retrieve the final piece of the dragon’s magic. Their interactions are filled with humor, heart, and moments of true friendship as they learn the value of teamwork, mutual respect, and sacrifice. As Raya faces obstacles and setbacks, she is reminded of the power of hope and the belief that even in the darkest of times, unity can light the way forward.
Visually, Raya and the Last Dragon is stunning. The animation is crisp, fluid, and rich in detail, bringing the fantastical elements of the story to life in ways that are both magical and emotionally resonant. From the serene beauty of the Heart tribe to the wild and dangerous landscapes of the other regions, the environments are as much characters in the story as the people themselves. The use of color, texture, and design plays a key role in communicating the emotional tone of each scene—from moments of peace and wonder to scenes filled with intense action and danger.
The action sequences are exhilarating, with expertly choreographed fight scenes that showcase Raya’s combat skills and her growth as a leader. However, what makes this movie truly special is the emotional depth at its core. Raya’s internal struggle, her growth from a lone warrior to someone who understands the importance of trust and collaboration, adds a powerful layer to the film that resonates with viewers of all ages. The themes of hope, redemption, and the strength found in community are woven seamlessly into the narrative, making it more than just an action-packed adventure—it’s a story about what it means to be human, to forgive, and to fight for a better world.
Sisu, voiced by Awkwafina, brings an element of joy and humor to the film, offering much-needed comic relief in the midst of tense and dramatic moments. Her character, with all her quirks and imperfections, provides a perfect counterbalance to Raya’s more serious, focused nature. The dynamic between them is heartwarming, and Sisu’s wise, yet playful, perspective on life encourages Raya to let go of her fears and trust in the possibility of hope and change.
Ultimately, Raya and the Last Dragon is not just a tale of defeating an evil force; it’s a reminder that the true magic in life lies in human connection, the willingness to forgive, and the courage to build bridges instead of walls. The final moments of the film are powerful and emotional, leaving a lasting impact on anyone who watches, with the message that love and trust are the greatest forces we have to heal the world.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – A visually stunning, emotionally resonant adventure that teaches the power of unity, hope, and friendship.
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