Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)
Raya and the Last Dragon (2021) is an animated fantasy adventure from Walt Disney Animation Studios, directed by Don Hall and Carlos López Estrada. Set in the mythical land of Kumandra, the film follows the story of Raya (voiced by Kelly Marie Tran), a skilled warrior princess on a quest to reunite the fractured kingdom and save her people from an ancient threat known as the Druun, sinister spirits that turn people to stone.
To restore peace, Raya seeks out the last remaining dragon, Sisu (voiced by Awkwafina), who holds the power to help her defeat the Druun and bring harmony back to the land. Along her journey, Raya learns about trust, unity, and healing, gathering allies from the different tribes who share her vision of a united Kumandra. The film’s world is inspired by Southeast Asian cultures, with detailed landscapes, costumes, and traditions woven into the story.
Raya and the Last Dragon received praise for its stunning animation, action sequences, and cultural representation. It also explored themes of trust, reconciliation, and resilience, resonating with audiences of all ages. The film stood out for its complex protagonist and the refreshing take on heroism and forgiveness, as well as its rich visual world-building that showcased Disney’s animation prowess.