Disney’s animated features are almost always a safe bet for quality entertainment. However, their live-action films have historically been more of a mixed bag. While some, like Mary Poppins or 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, have become timeless classics, others such as Popeye have struggled to resonate with audiences. Falling into the live-action category, yet uniquely featuring an animated central character, is Pete’s Dragon. Released in 1977, this film, while perhaps a bit lengthy and meandering in its narrative, stands out as a genuinely charming and enjoyable movie, far surpassing some of Disney’s less successful live-action ventures of the era like Condorman, Popeye, and Herbie Goes Bananas.
Pete’s Dragon 1977 film tells the story of Pete (Sean Marshall), a young orphan escaping the clutches of the Gogans, a family of backwoods antagonists led by the formidable Lena Gogan (Shelly Winters). The Gogans wrongly believe they own Pete, claiming to have purchased him. Fleeing through the forests of Maine, Pete is determined to reach Passamaquoddy, a nearby coastal town, in search of safety and a new beginning. He is not alone on this journey; his companion is Elliot, a large, friendly, and crucially, invisible animated dragon. Elliot acts as Pete’s protector and guardian, watching over him as the boy seeks to build a stable life.
Upon arriving in Passamaquoddy, Pete and Elliot’s presence, though one is unseen by most, inevitably leads to a series of comical mishaps and misunderstandings. Lighthouse keeper Lampie (Mickey Rooney) is among the first to encounter the unseen dragon, resulting in some hilarious moments of panic and confusion. Seeking refuge, Pete and Elliot find themselves in nearby caves, where Pete is discovered by Nora (Helen Reddy), Lampie’s kind daughter. Nora decides to offer Pete shelter and kindness, taking him into her care. With Pete now seemingly safe and finding a place to belong, Elliot’s purpose appears to be fulfilled. However, the tranquility of Passamaquoddy is soon disrupted by the arrival of Dr. Terminus (Jim Dale), a charismatic but deceitful traveling salesman. Dr. Terminus, upon hearing whispers of a dragon, sets his sights on capturing Elliot for his own unscrupulous purposes.
While the plot of Pete’s Dragon 1977 film does unfold in a somewhat rambling fashion, introducing a variety of characters and subplots, it ultimately contributes to the film’s whimsical charm. Despite its episodic nature, Pete’s Dragon remains thoroughly entertaining. The performances, particularly Jim Dale as the scheming Dr. Terminus and Red Buttons as his bumbling sidekick, add a layer of genuine comedic villainy that is delightful to watch. For its time, the technical achievement of blending the animated Elliot seamlessly with the live-action actors is remarkably well done. Although a late shipwreck scene might reveal some dated special effects, the overall integration of animation and live-action remains impressive even by today’s standards.
Pete’s Dragon 1977 film offers a wealth of enjoyment for younger viewers, provided they can settle in for a slightly longer movie experience. Adults too will find themselves charmed by the film’s nostalgic appeal and heartwarming story. In a period where Disney’s live-action output was sometimes inconsistent, Pete’s Dragon shines as one of the studio’s more successful and enduring live-action offerings. It’s a testament to the magic that can happen when live-action and animation combine in the right way, creating a memorable and heartwarming family film.
