Pete’s Dragon

“Pete’s Dragon” is a 1977 live-action/animated musical fantasy film produced by Walt Disney Productions. It tells the heartwarming story of a young orphan boy named Pete and his best friend Elliott, who happens to be a magical dragon.

The film begins with Pete escaping from his abusive adoptive family and wandering into the forest, where he befriends Elliott, a large, green, and furry dragon who can turn invisible. Together, they form a strong bond and become inseparable friends.

The small fishing town where Pete and Elliott reside is skeptical about the existence of the dragon, but a kind-hearted lighthouse keeper named Nora and her father Lampie eventually come to believe the boy’s stories. Nora and Lampie help Pete find a new home in the town, away from his previous hardships.

Meanwhile, a traveling quack named Dr. Terminus, and his partner, Hoagy, discover Elliott’s existence and see an opportunity to profit from the dragon’s magical abilities. They attempt to capture Elliott and exploit his powers for their own gain.

As the story unfolds, Pete and Elliott must protect each other from those who want to exploit them while also proving the existence of the friendly dragon to the disbelieving townspeople.

“Pete’s Dragon” is a heartwarming tale that explores themes of friendship, family, and the power of belief. The film is known for its touching moments, catchy musical numbers, and groundbreaking combination of live-action and animation.

The film received positive reviews from both audiences and critics, praising the performances, animation, and touching story. It became a beloved classic, captivating generations of viewers with its charming characters and feel-good message.

In 2016, Disney released a live-action remake of “Pete’s Dragon,” featuring a reimagined storyline and updated visual effects while retaining the heart of the original film.

Overall, “Pete’s Dragon” has left a lasting impact on Disney’s film legacy, demonstrating the power of friendship and the importance of believing in the extraordinary. It continues to be cherished by audiences of all ages as one of Disney’s most heartwarming and magical stories.

Fun Facts

• Pete’s Dragon is the first Disney animated movie on which none of the 9 original Disney animators worked on.
• Pete’s Dragon was remade once in 2016.

Related News:

• Joe Hale, Disney Animator, Layout Artist for ‘Sleeping Beauty,’ and VFX Oscar Nominee for ‘The Black Hole,’ Passes Away at 99, February 7, 2025
• Pete’s Dragon DVD and Blu-Ray Coming Soon: What You Need to Know, October 29, 2016
• New ‘Pete’s Dragon’ Elliot Build-a-Bear Stuffed Animal, July 8, 2016
• Disney Releases New Pete’s Dragon Trailer, June 14, 2016