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Pete’s Dragon is directed by Don Chaffey and stars Helen Reddy (Nora), Jim Dale (Dr. Terminus), Mickey Rooney (Lampie), Red Buttons (Hoagy), Shelley Winters (Lena Goga), Sean Marshall (Pete), Jane Kean (Miss Taylor), Jim Backus (The Mayor), and Charlie Callas (voice of Elliot) ***

Pete’s Dragon is a Dis ney film, originally released in 1977, that combines live action and animated storytelling. The film follows a young boy who flees from his abusive guardians, whose only friend is a dragon only he can see – and while helpful, it isn’t long before this starts getting him into trouble and awkward situations. It ends up being up to the twosome to protect a beach town from a devious villain. Compared to some of the legendary Disney movies of the past, Pete’s dragon isn’t as well remembered. While it’s true that this one isn’t as timeless as some of the old classics (some parts feel especially dated), it’s hard to argue that it’s still an enjoyable film. ***

Where Pete’s Dragon excels is its voice acting and (like many other Disney films) the musical numbers. Disney assembled an all-star cast of voice actors who suit the characters perfectly, and while not necessarily all well-known, each one of them does a great job here. And like all Disney movies, the songs are top-notch and steal the show every time they come about. Movies that combine live action=2 0and animation are nothing new. They weren’t even new back in 1977, when the film was first released. But that doesn’t keep Pete’s Dragon from being one of the freshest, most enjoyable films of its kind. It’s well worth discovering, or rediscovering. ---

Image and Sound:

When it comes to rereleasing their old films, Disney usually doesn’t fail to please, and often delivers some of the best transfers on the market. This reissue of Pete’s Dragon is no exception. Presented at the theatrical aspect ratio of 1.66:1, the image is very clear and colorful throughout. Anomalies in the picture are surprisingly minimal, considering in the long run this is one of Disney’s “b-movies.” The stereo remix sounds very good, generally front-heavy but all audio is fantastic, especially in musical scenes.

Disney gives us plenty of supplements on this new edition of the film. There is plenty of interesting footage, artwork, an interactive game, and several features more. Some of the material is only somewhat related to the movie, but I doubt any fan will be disappointed with what is offered here – this is obviously more bonus material than earlier issues of the film have had.

Final Words: