Take 1: Progressively Christian, Raya and the Last Dragon gave me the feels when its young brown-skinned woman/prophet survives her good father’s sacrifice, saves a female dragon, competes with a non-binary friend, and consolidates a troubled kingdom by helping everyone reach heaven.
Take 2: Raya and the Last Dragon is better the second time through because the dragon’s self-doubt is a touchstone for the way slackers can make good on the trust of others.
Take 3: Raya and the Last Dragon easily sustains the theme that found families can save the world.
–February 29, 2024