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Raya and the Last Dragon

Raya and the Last Dragon

Representation Score

8.6/10

Excellent

2021

PG

Director

Carlos López Estrada, Don Hall

Runtime

107 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Raya and the Last Dragon distinguishes itself by rejecting Eurocentric fantasy conventions in favor of a rich, Southeast Asian-inspired world. By highlighting a highly capable female protagonist, the film effectively counters traditional gender stereotypes and patriarchal leadership structures. While the film excels in racial authenticity and gender subversion, it falls short in providing explicit LGBTQ+ representation and nuanced portrayals of disability. Instead, it leans on supernatural elements to convey certain themes. Overall, the film presents a sophisticated approach to world-building, emphasizing cultural specificity and social cohesion over individualistic or Western-centric narratives.

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Category Breakdown

Does Raya and the Last Dragon have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not include explicit LGBTQ+ characters or relationships that go beyond traditional heterosexual norms. Some viewers may see romantic tension between Raya and Namaari, but the story stays within conventional romantic arcs.

How does Raya and the Last Dragon portray gender?

Excellent

Raya is a strong, independent warrior and leader who challenges the damsel in distress stereotype. The film passes the Bechdel test with substantial, plot-driven conversations between female characters.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Raya and the Last Dragon?

Excellent

The film showcases authentic Southeast Asian aesthetics, architecture, and cuisine, offering a culturally rich and diverse setting that contrasts with typical Western fantasy landscapes.

How does Raya and the Last Dragon represent religion and culture?

Good

The story addresses tribalism and isolationism, emphasizing the importance of community unity over extreme self-reliance. It explores healing fractured communities and overcoming historical divisions through social cohesion.

Does Raya and the Last Dragon include disability representation?

Fair

The film does not feature any main characters with visible or invisible disabilities. The supernatural entity known as the Druun functions as a metaphorical antagonist rather than a nuanced exploration of neurodivergence or disability.

Present on Screen

  • Rich Southeast Asian cultural elements in world-building and visuals.
  • Strong subversion of gender stereotypes through a powerful female lead.
  • Substantial female-to-female dialogue that meets the Bechdel test.

Limited or Absent

  • Lack of explicit LGBTQ+ representation or non-traditional romantic arcs.
  • No characters with visible or invisible disabilities as central figures.
  • Limited exploration of neurodivergence or nuanced disability themes.

Official Synopsis

Long ago, in the fantasy world of Kumandra, humans and dragons lived together in harmony. But when an evil force threatened the land, the dragons sacrificed themselves to save humanity. Now, 500 years later, that same evil has returned and it’s up to a lone warrior, Raya, to track down the legendary last dragon to restore the fractured land and its divided people.

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