Raya and the Last Dragon is a 2021 animated fantasy film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios.
Directed by Don Hall and Carlos López Estrada, the film features a voice cast led by Kelly Marie Tran as Raya and Awkwafina as Sisu, the titular last dragon. Set in the mythical land of Kumandra, the story unfolds in a world where humans and dragons once lived together in harmony. However, after an evil force known as the Druun threatened the land, the dragons sacrificed themselves to save humanity. Five hundred years later, the Druun returns, and it falls upon the lone warrior Raya to find the last dragon and restore peace to the fractured land.
The film explores themes of trust, teamwork, and the importance of unity in overcoming adversity. As Raya embarks on her quest, she learns that it will take more than just a dragon to save her people; it requires collaboration and understanding among the divided factions of Kumandra. The narrative is enriched by a diverse array of characters, including Boun, a street-savvy 10-year-old entrepreneur; Tong, a formidable giant; and Namaari, Raya's nemesis, who is voiced by Gemma Chan.
Raya and the Last Dragon premiered in theaters on March 5, 2021, and was also made available on Disney+ with Premier Access. The film received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its animation quality, voice performances, and cultural representation. It grossed approximately $130.4 million worldwide against a production budget of around $100 million, making it a commercial success despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The film was nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, and it became one of the most-watched streaming titles of 2021, with over 8.34 billion minutes viewed. It also sparked discussions about Southeast Asian representation in media, leading Disney to collaborate with various brands to promote cultural authenticity and support local businesses.
Overall, Raya and the Last Dragon stands out as a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that emphasizes the power of community and the importance of overcoming differences in the face of common threats.