Raya and the Last Dragon (2021), directed by Don Hall and Carlos López Estrada, is an enchanting Disney animated film set in the fantasy land of Kumandra, inspired by Southeast Asian cultures. It follows the story of Raya, a fierce warrior princess, on her quest to restore peace to her divided kingdom. With stunning animation, lovable characters, and a powerful message about trust and unity, Raya and the Last Dragon captures both adventure and heart, appealing to audiences of all ages.

🐉 Plot Overview: A Quest to Save a Fractured Kingdom

Long ago, the harmonious land of Kumandra was threatened by the Druun, destructive creatures that turn people to stone. The dragons of Kumandra sacrificed themselves to save humanity, leaving behind a powerful Dragon Gem to keep the Druun at bay. Centuries later, Kumandra is divided into five tribes—Fang, Heart, Spine, Talon, and Tail—each vying for power.

Raya (voiced by Kelly Marie Tran), the princess of the Heart tribe, witnesses the shattering of the Dragon Gem due to a betrayal, unleashing the Druun once again. To restore peace, Raya sets out to find Sisu (Awkwafina), the last surviving dragon, hoping her powers can help restore the Gem. Along the way, Raya and Sisu must gather the shattered pieces from each tribe and overcome distrust, forming alliances with individuals from different tribes as they work together to save Kumandra.

🎭 Memorable Characters and Performances

• Kelly Marie Tran as Raya: Tran brings both strength and vulnerability to Raya, capturing the character’s determination and internal struggle. Raya’s journey is one of resilience and growth, as she learns to reconcile her warrior instincts with the need for trust and collaboration. Tran’s performance brings depth and relatability to Raya, making her a memorable Disney heroine.
• Awkwafina as Sisu: Awkwafina’s portrayal of Sisu, the last dragon, is humorous, heartfelt, and endearing. Sisu’s lighthearted, optimistic personality provides a delightful contrast to Raya’s cautious nature. Awkwafina’s comedic timing and emotional range bring charm to Sisu, making her a character who embodies hope, compassion, and selflessness.
• Gemma Chan as Namaari: Chan’s voice work as Namaari, Raya’s rival from the Fang tribe, adds complexity to the character, portraying her as a fierce warrior torn between loyalty to her people and a hidden admiration for Raya. Namaari’s character arc reflects the film’s themes of trust and redemption, showcasing a nuanced portrayal of an antagonist with sympathetic motives.
• Supporting Cast: The film’s diverse cast of supporting characters—including Boun (Izaac Wang), a young entrepreneur from Tail; Tong (Benedict Wong), a warrior from Spine; and Little Noi, a baby con artist from Talon—adds humor and diversity, enhancing the story’s sense of community and unity.

🌄 Beautiful Animation and Immersive World-Building

Raya and the Last Dragon is visually stunning, with animation that captures the rich landscapes and vibrant cultures inspired by Southeast Asia. From lush jungles and misty rivers to desert lands and bustling market towns, each region of Kumandra is uniquely designed, immersing viewers in a world that feels alive and authentic. The film’s intricate details, inspired by real Southeast Asian architecture, clothing, and landscapes, create a visually immersive experience that celebrates cultural diversity.

The animation also shines in the action sequences, which are skillfully choreographed and influenced by Southeast Asian martial arts. Each fight scene is dynamic and engaging, showcasing Raya’s agility and skill while emphasizing the balance between power and grace.

💡 Themes of Trust, Unity, and Healing

At its core, Raya and the Last Dragon is a story about trust, unity, and healing from division. Raya’s journey reflects the struggle to overcome past hurts and prejudices, showing the importance of trusting others even when it’s challenging. The film addresses themes of reconciliation and the power of collective action, illustrating that peace is achievable only when people come together and set aside their differences.

Through Sisu’s character, the story reinforces the importance of hope and kindness, suggesting that even the smallest acts of trust can inspire lasting change. The film’s message resonates with the need for unity in the face of adversity, making it a timely and meaningful narrative for today’s world.

🎶 Enchanting Score and Cultural Soundtrack

James Newton Howard’s score complements the film’s epic and emotional moments, incorporating Southeast Asian-inspired sounds that add authenticity and richness to the story. The music enhances both the adventure and introspective scenes, adding layers to the film’s emotional resonance and creating a soundscape that reflects the mystical, culturally rich world of Kumandra.

🎬 Film Details:

• Title: Raya and the Last Dragon
• Directors: Don Hall, Carlos López Estrada
• Release Date: March 5, 2021
• Cast: Kelly Marie Tran, Awkwafina, Gemma Chan, Benedict Wong, Izaac Wang
• Genre: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy
• Runtime: 1h 47m
• IMDb Rating: 7.3
• Notable Aspects: Rich cultural inspiration, powerful themes, stunning animation, dynamic characters

🏆 Final Verdict: A Heartfelt, Visually Spectacular Adventure

Raya and the Last Dragon is a beautifully crafted film that combines action, humor, and heart with a powerful message about unity and trust. Kelly Marie Tran and Awkwafina’s performances bring life to a dynamic duo, while the film’s animation and Southeast Asian-inspired world-building create an immersive experience. The themes of overcoming division, healing wounds, and trusting in others resonate with audiences of all ages, making it a story as timely as it is timeless.

For fans of animated adventures and heartfelt stories with meaningful messages, Raya and the Last Dragon offers a unique journey through a visually stunning, culturally rich world. It’s a testament to the power of hope, community, and the courage to believe in others—a journey that encourages us all to find strength in unity.