Pete’s Dragon is a long-awaited project from Disney, which, although it has already achieved great success with its original film, the studio has always yearned to recreate this masterpiece. With high ambitions, it aims not just to be another blockbuster but to elevate the storytelling through engaging visuals and a deeper connection to the audience’s emotions. After three years of development and production, the film has been carefully crafted to ensure every detail is captured in its most polished form.
1. Stunning Filming Locations in New Zealand
The various settings in the film take place in lush forests, allowing natural light to create an enchanting atmosphere that complements the storytelling. Director David Lowery chose New Zealand as the primary filming location, leveraging the country’s breathtaking landscapes to enhance the film’s magical essence.
As a diverse country with various climates and stunning scenery, New Zealand provides a backdrop that brings the wilderness to life without the need for artificial enhancements. Additionally, the country has attracted many filmmakers, with parts of “The Lord of The Rings” trilogy also filmed here.
2. From Classic Animation to Modern Adaptation in 2016
In 1977, Walt Disney released the original Pete’s Dragon, captivating audiences with its story of a young boy and his green dragon living in a magical forest. This film was one of the pioneers in combining live-action with animation, marking a significant milestone in Disney’s history. With a budget of only 10 million dollars, the film grossed nearly four times that amount.
After many years, Disney believed that this story still had much potential to explore. However, the challenge was how to refresh the narrative to make it more appealing. Ultimately, they found an ideal director/writer in David Lowery, who shared his vision and passion for the project.
David Lowery not only excelled in directing but also took on the role of writer. After the success of his short film “Pioneer,” which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2011, Lowery continued to receive positive feedback for his feature film “Ain’t Them Bodies Saints” at Sundance 2013. Therefore, Whitaker Productions was confident in bringing Lowery on board, stating, “We firmly believe that David has the talent to find fresh ways to approach this simple yet profound story and turn it into a rich, engaging film for audiences.”
3. Elliot – A Complex Creation of a Beloved Character
Dragons have always been considered mystical creatures that have appeared on Earth for over 4,000 years. Each culture and ethnicity has portrayed dragons differently, often giving them various meanings. This complexity in form and personality made Elliot a character that filmmakers had to refine multiple times. They drew inspiration from different animals, including dogs, cats, and even dinosaurs, to create the image of the green dragon.
And then Elliot from the 2016 version emerged. No longer characterized by the shaggy fur of his predecessor, this incarnation of Elliot is taller, leaner, and more vibrant. However, this version is also incredibly soft and cuddly. In fact, Elliot is the first animated dragon to have over 15 million polygons in its design. This detail makes Elliot more relatable than other dragons with wings, enhancing his appeal to audiences. Additionally, Elliot’s ability to breathe fire, fly, and change shape is executed with advanced CGI technology.
In the film, the bond between Elliot and Pete is incredibly profound. Their relationship creates a sense of comfort and safety for viewers, showcasing their mutual care and support. To convey their deep emotional connection, the film employs breathtaking cinematography, emphasizing the everyday lives of these characters and Elliot’s playful nature. Consequently, Elliot feels like a friend, sometimes protective like an older brother, and at times a nurturing figure like a father.
4. The Film is Receiving Positive Critical Acclaim
Since its release in theaters, Pete’s Dragon has garnered positive feedback from various reputable film review sites. Specifically, the film holds a score of 7.4/10 on IMDb and 7.3 on Rotten Tomatoes.
As an animated adventure film with a whimsical quality, it embodies deep emotions that resonate with viewers of all ages. Audiences are likely to feel positively uplifted by the close bond between Pete and Elliot, which serves as a gentle reminder that life can present challenges that seem insurmountable, but if one day they do appear, how will we react – with wonder, fear, or curiosity? This is the central emotional journey that each character experiences throughout the film.
