Disney has announced that its new animated movie, Raya and the Last Dragon, will premiere in theatres and stream on Disney+ from March 5th, 2021. No pricing has been announced as yet, but let’s hope it’s a little more affordable than Mulan’s $30 price tag.
The Story of Raya and the Last Dragon
“Long ago, in the fantasy world of Kumandra, humans and dragons lived together in harmony. But when an evil force threatened the land, the dragons sacrificed themselves to save humanity. Now, 500 years later, that same evil has returned and it’s up to a lone warrior, Raya, to track down the legendary last dragon to restore the fractured land and its divided people.”
The plot of Raya and the Last Dragon is set in a rich, fantastical world inspired by Southeast Asian cultures. The land of Kumandra is divided into five distinct regions, each with its own unique characteristics and challenges. Raya, the protagonist, is a skilled warrior from the Heart region, who embarks on a perilous journey to find the last dragon, Sisu, and unite the fractured lands.
“However, along her journey, she’ll learn that it’ll take more than a dragon to save the world—it’s going to take trust and teamwork as well. From directors Don Hall and Carlos López Estrada, co-directors Paul Briggs and John Ripa, producers Osnat Shurer and Peter Del Vecho, and featuring the voices of Kelly Marie Tran as Raya and Awkwafina as the last dragon Sisu, Walt Disney Animation Studios’”
Behind the Scenes and Voice Cast
The film boasts an impressive creative team and voice cast. Directors Don Hall and Carlos López Estrada bring their unique vision to the project, while co-directors Paul Briggs and John Ripa add their expertise in animation storytelling. Producers Osnat Shurer and Peter Del Vecho, known for their work on Moana and Frozen respectively, ensure that the film maintains Disney’s high standards of quality and entertainment.
Kelly Marie Tran, known for her role as Rose Tico in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, lends her voice to Raya. Tran’s performance is expected to bring depth and nuance to the character, making her a relatable and inspiring heroine. Awkwafina, who has gained acclaim for her roles in Crazy Rich Asians and The Farewell, voices Sisu, the last dragon. Sisu is described as a quirky and self-deprecating dragon who, despite her initial insecurities, proves to be a powerful ally to Raya.
The film also features a diverse supporting cast, including Gemma Chan, Daniel Dae Kim, Sandra Oh, Benedict Wong, and Izaac Wang. This ensemble brings a wealth of talent and cultural authenticity to the film, reflecting the rich tapestry of Southeast Asian cultures that inspired the story.
Anticipation and Expectations
Raya and the Last Dragon is highly anticipated not only for its captivating story and stunning animation but also for its cultural significance. The film represents a step forward in Disney’s efforts to diversify its storytelling and include more representation of different cultures and communities. By drawing inspiration from Southeast Asian folklore and traditions, the film offers a fresh and unique perspective that is sure to resonate with audiences worldwide.
The release strategy for Raya and the Last Dragon, with a simultaneous premiere in theatres and on Disney+, reflects the changing landscape of film distribution in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This approach allows viewers to choose how they want to experience the film, whether in the immersive environment of a cinema or the comfort of their own homes.
As the release date approaches, fans are eagerly awaiting more details about the film, including its pricing on Disney+. Given the mixed reactions to the $30 price tag for Mulan, Disney may consider a more accessible pricing model to attract a wider audience.
Raya and the Last Dragon premiers in theatres and on Disney+ on March 5th, 2021.
Source: Disney
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