What a Pleasant Surprise
Pete's Dragon is a surprise remake of Disney's 1977 live-action / animated classic. I say, "surprise," because I can still remember the original Disney movie very well when I watched it with my own parents for the first time. I can truly say I've come "full circle" now that I had the opportunity to bring my 3 kids to see the remake. By almost all accounts, this movie is just as awesome to the earlier version in many regards: fun, sweet, and well thought-out messages / themes. That being said, the remake has a different story than the original, and the "fun" parts includes plenty of suspense, danger, as well as some very heart-felt and genuine moments.
Summary
Pete is just a toddler when he's in a terrible car accident that leaves him orphaned and abandoned in the woods, which could definitely upset younger or more sensitive kids. But sweet, furry dragon Elliot (named after Pete's favorite childhood book) takes care of Pete for several years -- until loggers threaten the wilderness and their home. A few scenes of caution (depending on the age of your child), expect some tense chases and when hunters go after Elliot and they appear to injure him. Even with all that, you can expect this to be an instant classic because this is a really sweet film about love, friendship, and finding family in unexpected places. When I asked my kids what they thought about the movie, they said, "appreciate nature and to make sure they love their family." (ages 4 and 7)
What Parents Should Think
Parents will love this sweet throwback Disney film, and kids will be enchanted by Pete and his friendly dragon for the first time. Disney's original take on the story was mostly live action, with an animated dragon. This update is "live-action," where modern filming and technology make Elliot even more lovable and life-like (and thereby makes the story rich and engaging). What I appreciated about the film, and it's very subtle, is that the movie is actually set in the '70s, which is way before cell phones and the Internet, when life was slower and kids had more chances to go off and make their own adventures. Again, because Pete has been living with Elliot since he was orphaned at age 5, their relationship is delightful to watch as we see it grow and mature. Of course, it's a Disney movie, so it has to begin with parental loss -- and end with a fiery car chase -- but most everything in the middle is family wholesome and entertaining.
Overall
Overall, Elliot is a triumph, and a new ideal for fantasy creatures and makes “Pete’s Dragon” one of the best remakes in recent years. Knowledge of the original is entirely optional, but to anyone familiar with the 1977 film, this story will still be familiar enough to enjoy and watch unfold.
Visit the official PETE’S DRAGON website here: http://disney.com/petesdragon
PETE’S DRAGON flies into theatres everywhere on August 12th!
