Raya and the Last Dragon Embraces Diversity and Offers a Timely Message of Trust and Unity
Disney Animation’s latest original film, Raya and the Last Dragon, marks a significant step towards inclusivity by introducing Raya, Disney’s first princess from Southeast Asia, voiced by Kelly Marie Tran. Set in the fantastical world of Kumandra, the film beautifully blends elements from various Southeast Asian cultures, creating a visually stunning and culturally rich experience. The story follows Raya’s quest to unite the fractured lands of Kumandra and find the Last Dragon, Sisu (voiced by Awkwafina), to save the world from the deadly Druun, a plague that turns everyone into stone.
A World Inspired by Southeast Asian Cultures
Raya and the Last Dragon showcases a unique blend of Southeast Asian influences, drawing inspiration from diverse cultures like Vietnamese, Thai, and Indonesian traditions. The film’s visual design, inspired by ancient temples, intricate carvings, and colourful textiles, transports viewers to a world that feels both familiar and exotic. The filmmakers meticulously crafted the film’s detailed landscape, featuring a hostile desert, giant sun-baked palaces, desolate icy tundras, and vibrant night markets, each reflecting a different facet of Southeast Asia.
The cultural authenticity extends beyond aesthetics, incorporated into subtle details like the soup bowl, a symbol of unity and shared heritage, using ingredients found across Southeast Asia, and the custom of removing footwear before entering sacred places. The music, composed by James Newton Howard, also reflects a South Asian influence, adding another layer of cultural immersion to the film’s captivating world.
More Than a Princess: Raya’s Story of Trust and Unity
Raya and the Last Dragon goes beyond a traditional princess narrative, focusing on themes of trust, unity, and confronting the shadows of the past. The story navigates a world where fear and mistrust have divided Kumandra into five factions, each battling over fragments of the Dragon Gem, the source of protection against the Druun. Raya’s journey to reunite the land emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, understanding, and the power of trust, themes that resonate deeply in today’s world.
The film’s messaging is further reinforced by the character of Sisu, the last dragon. Sisu, unlike traditional hero tropes, embraces her flaws and imperfections, conveying the message that even seemingly "unqualified" heroes can make a difference. Her comedic personality provides moments of levity, but her core message of trusting those around you and recognizing the power of unity remains a poignant reminder of the importance of human connection, particularly in times of division and uncertainty.
A Diverse Cast and a World of Opportunity
Raya and the Last Dragon features a predominantly Asian cast, featuring actors of Vietnamese, Chinese, Korean, and Hong Kongese heritage, further solidifying its cultural representation. The film’s diverse ensemble of characters, each with their unique strengths and weaknesses, contributes to the film’s heartwarming message of inclusivity and the power of collaboration.
Raya and the Last Dragon offers a captivating story with compelling visuals, memorable characters, and a powerful message of unity and trust. The film stands out as a testament to Disney’s commitment to representing diverse cultures and exploring themes that resonate deeply within a global audience. While its limited theatrical distribution in India might hinder its reach, Raya and the Last Dragon marks a significant milestone in Disney’s journey towards inclusivity, showcasing a world rich in cultural diversity and a message that speaks to the importance of unity in a time of growing division.
