A Fierce Heroine Name Raya

Raya and the Last Dragon

by Kathia Woods

There is a reason why Disney leads the conversation when it comes to animation films. Raya and the Last Dragon is another hit in a long line of hits. This time our heroine is a South Eastern Asian girl named Raya, voiced beautifully by (Kelly Marie Tran).  

The film centers around the fact that Dragons sacrificed themselves to save humans from Druun. Chief Benja (Daniel Kim) is the guardian of the dragon gem. His wish is to unite the Kingdom's five tribes; unfortunately, his goodwill is betrayed. This betrayal causes the Druun to rise and turn people into stone.

Raya, having survived the ordeal, searches, and finds the last surviving Dragon Sisu (Awkwafina). Sisu isn't your regular Dragon. She believes in positivity and the good in humanity. Hot on the dynamic duo's trail is Raya's arch-nemesis Namaari (Gemma Chan).

Disney did not spare the expense when it came to the animation of this beautiful film. Each tribe is amazingly illustrated to help the audience understand the importance of their role in the realm. Heart is a verdant paradise while Tail the dessert. Talon is a dynamic city built on stilts. Spine is located on a snowy mountain, with Fang being an island fortress. These aren't just places, but the animators took it a step further by depicting the residents of those places. Adding distinctive color and texture helps convey the strengths of each realm and what they bring to the Kingdom.

Leading this cast is Raya, a strong modern heroine that young girls worldwide are going to fall in love with. She's determined and loyal. Tran does an outstanding job embodying her spirit. Awkwafina is equally delightful as the free-spirited Sisu. She's funny, has a big heart, and is an eternal optimist. Sisu is the spiritual guide Raya needs to channel her anger in a positive direction. Gemma Chan is excellent as the nemesis Namaari. The fight scenes between her and Raya are epic and fun. We can't leave out Raya's band of misfits, young chef Boun (Izaac Wang), lonely warrior Tong (Benedict Wong), and energetic baby Noi (Thalia Tran).

The great thing about this film is that Raya isn't your conventional Disney Princess. She's a girl that is hurting, and this quest is the only thing keeping her going. The lesson for young girls here is that it's okay not to have it all figured out, but most importantly, we all need a little help. Are there some predictable moments in Raya? Yes, but the camaraderie, as well as the stunning animation, outweighs any of that. In a year that has been filled with sadness, this film is a perfect excuse to gather the whole family for some fun.

Raya and The Last Dragon is available on Disney+ Premier for $29.99.