Disney’s Pete’s Dragon, a heartwarming adventure film from 2016, captivated audiences with its tale of friendship, family, and a magical dragon named Elliot. Directed by David Lowery, this reimagining of the 1977 classic brought a fresh perspective and stunning visual effects to the beloved story. A crucial element of the film’s success was its talented cast, who brought depth and emotion to their roles, making the story resonate with viewers of all ages. Let’s delve into the Pete’s Dragon 2016 cast and discover the actors who brought this enchanting world to life.
The Core Cast of Pete’s Dragon
The movie centers around a few key characters, each played by actors who perfectly embodied their roles. Here’s a closer look at the main Pete’s Dragon 2016 cast members:
Oakes Fegley as Pete
Oakes Fegley takes on the central role of Pete, a young orphaned boy who has been raised in the forest by Elliot the dragon for six years. Fegley delivers a compelling performance, portraying Pete’s wild nature, his deep bond with Elliot, and his gradual adaptation to human society. His previous work includes roles in Boardwalk Empire and This is Where I Leave You, but Pete’s Dragon was a significant breakthrough role for the young actor, showcasing his ability to carry an emotional and adventurous narrative.
Bryce Dallas Howard as Grace Meacham
Bryce Dallas Howard plays Grace Meacham, a kind-hearted forest ranger and the daughter of Mr. Meacham. Grace represents the bridge between the human world and Pete’s hidden world. Howard brings warmth and intelligence to the role, portraying Grace’s initial skepticism and eventual acceptance of Elliot, as well as her growing connection with Pete. Known for her roles in blockbuster films like Jurassic World and The Help, Howard adds a familiar and reliable presence to the Pete’s Dragon 2016 cast.
Robert Redford as Mr. Meacham
Legendary actor Robert Redford portrays Mr. Meacham, Grace’s father and a local wood carver who has been telling tales of a dragon in the woods for years. Redford adds gravitas and charm to the role of the wise old storyteller. His performance brings a sense of wonder and belief to the narrative, making the idea of a dragon in the forest believable within the film’s world. Redford’s iconic status further elevates the Pete’s Dragon 2016 cast.
Wes Bentley as Jack
Wes Bentley plays Jack, a local lumber mill owner and Natalie’s father. Initially driven by economic interests, Jack’s character arc involves understanding and protecting the forest and its magical inhabitant. Bentley, known for his roles in American Beauty and The Hunger Games, brings a nuanced performance to Jack, showing his transformation from a businessman to a protector. His presence adds complexity to the Pete’s Dragon 2016 cast.
Oona Laurence as Natalie
Oona Laurence portrays Natalie, Jack’s daughter, an inquisitive and adventurous young girl who befriends Pete and becomes one of Elliot’s first human allies. Laurence, who has appeared in Matilda the Musical on Broadway and films like Bad Moms, brings youthful energy and curiosity to Natalie. Her character is crucial in helping Pete navigate the human world and in convincing her father to protect Elliot.
Karl Urban as Gavin
Karl Urban plays Gavin, Jack’s brother and a former military man who is more driven by the thrill of the hunt than by conservation. Gavin serves as the film’s primary antagonist, initially seeing Elliot as a creature to be captured. Urban, known for his roles in Star Trek and The Lord of the Rings, brings intensity and a sense of danger to Gavin, making him a compelling, if misguided, character within the Pete’s Dragon 2016 cast.
Supporting Cast and Characters
Beyond the main players, Pete’s Dragon 2016 cast is rounded out by a talented group of supporting actors who contribute to the rich tapestry of the film’s world:
- Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Sheriff Gene Dentler: The local sheriff who adds a touch of law and order to the unfolding events.
- John Kassir as the voice of Elliot: While Elliot is primarily a CGI creation, John Kassir provides the dragon’s vocalizations, adding personality and emotion to the mythical creature.
This ensemble cast, led by strong performances from both established actors and rising stars like Oakes Fegley and Oona Laurence, is integral to the charm and emotional impact of Pete’s Dragon (2016). Their portrayals of relatable characters facing extraordinary circumstances are what make this film a memorable and heartwarming adventure for the whole family. When you think of Pete’s Dragon 2016 cast, you remember not just the actors, but the characters they so vividly brought to life, making the story of Pete and Elliot truly magical.
