Pete’s Dragon: Movie Review
Disney’s remake of “Pete’s Dragon” is absolutely nothing like the original 1977 film. I loved the original film as a kid and watched it countless times. When the marketing push began for the remake, I found myself underwhelmed by the trailers. The whole thing looked lifeless to me. That is something I can’t say about the original. Despite my lack of interest in writer/director David Lowery’s remake, I went into it with an open mind. I am pleased to tell you that “Pete’s Dragon” really took me by surprise, in a good way. I was a child of the 80’s and this remake reminded me quite a bit of the films I loved growing up. Tone-wise it shares more in common with “E.T.” than the “G” rated original. This is definitely a darker film and maybe not for those under the age of 7.
Five years after surviving a car accident that took the lives of his parents, Pete (Oakes Fegley) has lived in the forest without any other people around. However, Pete wasn’t alone. A very large, furry mystical flying dragon became not only Pete’s protector but also his best friend. Pete named the dragon, Elliot after a character in his storybook. Pete and Elliot have remained undiscovered for years.
That all changed when a lumber company arrived and began chopping down the trees in the forest. Forrest Ranger, Grace (Bryce Dallas Howard) and her husband Jack (Wes Bentley) find and bring Pete to their home while they try to figure out where he came from. Their daughter Natalie (Oona Laurence) takes to Pete instantly.
Jack’s brother Gavin (Karl Urban) knows something big is in the forest and when he goes hunting with his crew, it doesn’t take long for them to cross paths with Elliot. The big dragon scares them off at first, but Gavin sees dollar signs and wants to trap the dragon so he can make money off of it. While Gavin plans his hunt, Pete finds himself comfortable with the family that has taken him in. However, he misses Elliot and the dragon misses his friend too.
The basic story is the same as the original but execution is very different and it works quite well. That cast is great, including Robert Redford who plays Grace’s father, Meacham. He is the only person to have ever seen the dragon before Pete. Oona Laurence is one of the most adorable children working today. Oakes Fegley also does a great job in the title role. “Pete’s Dragon” is fun, sweet, and is just a good family film. This is one of those very rare remakes that I can actually recommend.
By: Marc Ferman