Pete’s Dragon Movie Review – Is It Safe for Kids?

Tina Grey

Disney’s Pete’s Dragon (2016) stands as a unique and magical remake of the 1977 classic. This live-action film, directed by David Lowery, has captivated audiences with its heartwarming story, stunning visuals, and a lovable animated dragon. But for parents wondering whether it’s safe for kids, we’re here to break down every aspect of the film in a comprehensive review. From the story and animation to the PG rating and emotional themes, we’ll cover everything you need to know before deciding if Pete’s Dragon is right for your family movie night.


Introduction to Pete’s Dragon

At the heart of Pete’s Dragon is a tale of friendship, adventure, and self-discovery. The movie follows Pete, a young boy who has lived alone in the woods for six years with his best friend, Elliott, a friendly dragon. When Pete is discovered by forest ranger Grace (Bryce Dallas Howard), his world is turned upside down. As Grace and her family begin to learn more about Pete’s life in the woods, they also uncover the mystery of Elliott and the magical bond they share.

This family-friendly movie combines exciting adventure with heartfelt moments, making it a great choice for many viewers. But the real question is: Is Pete’s Dragon safe for kids? Let’s take a closer look at the film to determine if it’s appropriate for young children.

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Pete’s Dragon – A Magical Experience for Kids

Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to understand why Pete’s Dragon holds such universal appeal. On the surface, it’s a story about a boy and his dragon, but underneath, it deals with profound themes such as belonging, trust, and overcoming loneliness. These timeless messages are delivered in a way that resonates with both kids and adults alike. The bond between Pete and Elliott is central to the movie, creating a deep emotional connection that kids can relate to.

In terms of overall tone, Pete’s Dragon is a magical movie experience. The narrative is grounded in reality but infused with elements of fantasy, making it a great bridge between children’s innocence and more serious themes.


The Animation: Bringing Elliott the Dragon to Life

One of the standout features of Pete’s Dragon is its animation, especially in how it brings Elliott, the dragon, to life. Unlike the cartoonish version of Elliott in the 1977 original, the 2016 version presents a more realistic, yet still fantastical, animated creature. He’s designed to be visually striking while maintaining a sense of magic and charm.

Elliott’s Appearance and Sounds

Elliott is no ordinary dragon. He is huge, green, and covered in fur-like scales, making him look more like a large, friendly animal than the fire-breathing beasts we often see in other dragon movies. His eyes are expressive, which allows him to convey a wide range of emotions. He’s also able to fly and blend into his surroundings, thanks to his ability to turn invisible—traits that make him both mysterious and awe-inspiring. The sound design is equally impressive, with Elliott’s roars and growls resonating with power, while his softer sounds add a layer of tenderness when interacting with Pete.

The Impact of the Animation

This stunning animated dragon creates a perfect balance of fantasy and realism. Children will undoubtedly be enchanted by Elliott’s antics and feel an immediate connection to him. The design and animation quality elevate the film’s emotional stakes, especially when Elliott’s actions communicate his deep care and affection for Pete.


The Story: A Heartfelt Tale of Friendship and Family

At its core, Pete’s Dragon is a family movie about a boy and his dragon. But the story reaches far beyond a simple fantasy adventure. It’s about Pete’s journey from isolation to community, from loneliness to belonging.

Plot Overview

Pete has lived in the woods for six years, raised by Elliott after a tragic car accident left him orphaned. Grace, a forest ranger, discovers Pete and brings him back to town. Pete now faces the challenges of reentering human society. Meanwhile, Grace’s father, Meacham (Robert Redford), has spent years telling stories about a dragon in the forest. No one believes him—until they meet Elliott. The story follows Pete and Elliott as they fight to stay together while navigating the complexities of human relationships.

Themes of Loss and Grief

The movie touches on heavy themes of loss and grief, which are handled delicately and sensitively. Pete’s loss of his parents is a key emotional thread in the movie, and his bond with Elliott is rooted in this shared sense of abandonment. For kids, it’s an important lesson in how relationships—whether with a dragon or a person—can help heal wounds. However, younger children may find the depiction of Pete’s loss to be emotionally intense. Parents should be aware of how their kids might respond to these emotional beats.


Understanding the Pete’s Dragon PG Rating – Is It Safe for Kids?

Pete’s Dragon carries a PG rating, which means the film is generally suitable for children over the age of 5. The movie does not contain any intense violence or inappropriate content but does include mild peril and emotional moments that could be challenging for younger viewers.

Violence and Suspense

While there is no explicit violence in the film, there are scenes with suspense and danger, particularly when Pete and Elliott find themselves in threatening situations with humans who don’t understand their bond. The film features some animated fighting sequences that are not overly graphic but may still cause a bit of tension. For example, Elliott defends Pete from a dangerous situation, which includes some dramatic moments of action and a fight with humans who attempt to capture him.

Sensitivity to Scary Imagery

The film includes a few scary moments that could be intense for young children. For example, there are tense scenes where Elliott is chased or captured. These moments may cause some anxiety. Additionally, the reveal of Elliott’s invisibility power might startle younger kids. Such fantasy elements might be unsettling for those who are not used to them. While these moments are not violent, they could still be distressing. Parents should consider their child’s comfort level with fantasy adventure elements before watching.


What Age is Recommended to Watch Pete’s Dragon?

Given its PG rating, Pete’s Dragon is generally suitable for children aged 5 and up. However, the emotional depth of the story and the moments of peril may make it more appropriate for slightly older children. Here’s a quick breakdown of how different age groups might respond to the movie:

  • Ages 5-7: Younger children will likely be captivated by the friendship between Pete and Elliott, but they might struggle with the movie’s emotional depth, especially when it comes to Pete’s grief. The more suspenseful and intense sequences may also feel overwhelming for this age group.
  • Ages 8-10: This is a great age for kids to fully appreciate the movie’s story and emotional themes. They will understand Pete’s feelings of loss and gain a deeper connection to the themes of friendship and family.
  • Ages 10 and up: Older children and preteens will likely understand the movie’s messages about love, trust, and the importance of family. They’ll appreciate the emotional moments and may even relate to Pete’s longing for belonging.

Will You Be Taking Your Family to See Disney’s Pete’s Dragon?

So, is Pete’s Dragon the right choice for your family movie night? If you’re looking for a family-friendly film that balances adventure with heart, Pete’s Dragon is a solid option. The movie appeals to both kids and adults, offering meaningful life lessons and moments of joy and laughter.

However, parents should consider the age and emotional maturity of their children when deciding whether to watch this film. The mix of adventure, emotion, and suspense makes it best suited for older children or those who are sensitive to more emotional or dramatic scenes.

If you and your family are looking for a fantasy adventure that combines breathtaking visuals with a powerful story about friendship and family, Pete’s Dragon is sure to leave a lasting impression.


The Heart of Pete’s Dragon – A Timeless Family Story

Pete’s Dragon doesn’t just deliver a magical movie experience; it offers a deeper, more meaningful connection to its audience. It explores universal themes like loss, family, and the importance of trust. While it’s packed with action and fantasy elements, it’s the emotional heart of the story that truly resonates.

By blending animated dragon magic with real-world challenges, Pete’s Dragon creates an emotional and captivating tale that will stick with you long after the credits roll.


Looking for More Parent Movie Reviews Like Pete’s Dragon?

If you’re interested in more parent movie reviews or want to discover other family-friendly movies, here are some great reads:

  • The Best Disney Live-Action Remakes for Kids
  • How to Choose Age-Appropriate Movies for Your Kids
  • Family Movies That Teach Important Life Lessons

Related Content: Fun Activities Inspired by Pete’s Dragon

Looking to bring a little bit of Pete’s world to life at home? Try these fun activities based on the movie:

  • Dragon Craft: Create your own dragon using simple art supplies like paper, markers, and glue.
  • Elliott’s Adventure: Organize an outdoor scavenger hunt inspired by Pete’s adventures in the woods.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is “Pete’s Dragon” about?

Pete’s Dragon is a live-action Disney film about an orphaned boy named Pete and his friendly dragon, Elliott. Together, they navigate life in the forest and face new challenges.

How was “Pete’s Dragon” received by critics?

The film received positive reviews, holding an 88% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its heartfelt storytelling and visual appeal.

Who directed the 2016 remake of “Pete’s Dragon”?

David Lowery directed the 2016 version, bringing a fresh perspective to the classic tale.

Is “Pete’s Dragon” suitable for children?

Yes, the film is family-friendly, offering a heartwarming story suitable for children. However, parental guidance is recommended for very young viewers due to mild peril.

How does the 2016 remake compare to the original 1977 film?

The 2016 remake is seen as a major improvement over the original. It features updated visuals and a more engaging story, earning a high ranking among Disney’s live-action remakes.

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