Pete’s Dragon

Elliott is not portrayed as a threat; quite the opposite. He is depicted as a loyal, gentle, and protective companion to Pete. The film's narrative frames Elliott as a creature of wonder and friendship, rather than a monster. While his existence might be a cause for concern or exploitation by some characters, his core nature is one of innocence and deep affection for Pete, mirroring the fantastical elements of Mr. Meacham's stories.

This 2016 version of Pete's Dragon offers a significantly different interpretation from its 1977 predecessor. While both feature a boy and his dragon, the remake leans into a more grounded, live-action aesthetic with CGI for Elliott, rather than the musical and animated elements of the original. The narrative focus shifts towards a more intimate, character-driven story about connection and discovery, set against a realistic natural landscape.

Beyond the surface-level adventure, Pete's Dragon delves into profound themes. It's a story about finding family and belonging, particularly for a child who is literally lost and alone. The film also examines the power of belief versus scepticism, contrasting Mr. Meacham's whimsical tales with Grace's pragmatic approach. Furthermore, it touches on humanity's relationship with nature and the potential for misunderstanding or exploitation when the natural world intersects with human industry.

Yes, Pete's Dragon is generally considered a family-friendly film with themes that resonate universally. While set in the Pacific Northwest, its exploration of childhood, imagination, and the natural world offers broad appeal. The film's heartfelt narrative and the magical element of Elliott the dragon are likely to engage younger audiences and parents alike. It provides a gentle, enchanting cinematic experience that many Australian families will find enjoyable.

Pete's Dragon cultivates a tone of gentle wonder and heartfelt sincerity. The Pacific Northwest setting provides a lush, almost magical backdrop for Pete's extraordinary life with Elliott. While there are moments of tension, particularly concerning the lumber mill's activities, the overall atmosphere is one of warmth and discovery. It aims for a family-friendly enchantment, leaning into the magic of an unlikely friendship rather than outright spectacle.

The film features a notable cast, with Oakes Fegley portraying the titular character, Pete. Bryce Dallas Howard takes on the role of Grace, the forest ranger who befriends Pete. Wes Bentley and Karl Urban also feature in key supporting roles, alongside Oona Laurence. Their performances collectively contribute to the film's blend of wonder and grounded emotion.

The film revolves around Pete, a young, orphaned boy who has been living in the remote Pacific Northwest woods. His only companion is a fantastical, green dragon named Elliott. The story unfolds when a forest ranger, Grace, discovers Pete, and begins to unravel the mystery of his existence and his unique bond with the creature. It explores themes of belonging, friendship, and the blurry line between myth and reality, especially as Elliott bears a striking resemblance to local folklore.