Pete's Dragon (2016)
Synopsis:
Pete's Dragon follows the adventure of a young boy named Pete who has been living in the forest for six years with his best friend, a dragon named Elliott. When a forest ranger named Grace discovers Pete, she is amazed by his story and the existence of Elliott. As Grace and her family try to understand Pete's life in the forest, a local woodcarver named Mr. Meacham shares his own tales of a dragon in the woods. Meanwhile, a logging company threatens the forest, putting Elliott in danger. As the townspeople become aware of Elliott, Pete must find a way to protect his dragon friend and the home they share. The movie is a blend of adventure and fantasy, capturing the bond between a boy and his dragon.
Where To Watch: Pete's Dragon
Parental Feedback
Pete's Dragon, released in 2016, is a family-friendly adventure and fantasy film rated PG, making it suitable for kids. The movie is generally well-received by parents, who appreciate its heartwarming story and positive messages. It combines elements of magic and friendship, creating an engaging experience for young audiences, though some parents note a few intense scenes that might require guidance.
Why Kids Should Watch Pete's Dragon
The movie is praised for its uplifting themes and engaging storytelling.
- Promotes the value of friendship and loyalty.
- Features a strong bond between Pete and the dragon, Elliott, showcasing trust and companionship.
- Offers visually stunning scenes that captivate children's imaginations.
- Encourages empathy and understanding through its characters' interactions.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Pete's Dragon
Some parents express concerns about certain intense moments that might be unsettling for younger viewers.
- Includes scenes of peril that could be emotionally challenging for sensitive children.
- Depicts a few moments of danger that might be frightening.
- Some visual effects may be intense for very young kids.
Verdict: Parent Approved
Verdict: Parent Approved
Most parents agree this movie is a solid choice for kids because it offers positive messages about friendship, visually captivating scenes, and a heartwarming story.
What Parents Should Know About Pete's Dragon
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Pete and Elliott's friendship demonstrates loyalty and kindness, encouraging children to value their relationships. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The scenes where Pete is in danger might require parental guidance to help children process the emotions involved. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Characters who act selfishly or recklessly face consequences, reinforcing the importance of making good choices. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The characters work together to protect Elliott, highlighting the importance of teamwork and cooperation. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The movie delivers a clear message about the power of friendship and the importance of believing in the extraordinary. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Pete's Dragon is celebrated for its heartwarming narrative and positive messages, making it a great choice for family viewing. While some scenes may be intense for very young children, parental guidance can help mitigate any concerns. The film's emphasis on friendship and loyalty resonates well with audiences, and its visual appeal keeps children engaged. For families seeking similar themes, movies like "The BFG" or "The Jungle Book" might also be enjoyable options.
Official Pete's Dragon Trailer
The Core Values Learned From Pete's Dragon
Pete's Dragon's most common core values include Family love, Friendship, and Protecting nature. The movie beautifully showcases family Love through the bond between Pete and his newfound family, emphasizing the importance of belonging and support. Friendship is highlighted in the unique relationship between Pete and Elliott, the dragon, demonstrating Loyalty and Trust as they navigate challenges together.
Protecting nature is a central theme, as the characters work to preserve the forest and its inhabitants, teaching kids the significance of environmental stewardship. These values are woven into the story, providing children with meaningful lessons about the importance of caring for others and the world around them.
Other Core Values Explored: Acceptance | Appreciating family | Being brave | Caring for others | Compassion | Courage | Dealing with loss | Environmental awareness | Helping others | Kindness | Loyalty | Resilience | Trust
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Pete's Dragon
Protecting the Environment: Kids learn about the importance of protecting the environment as they see the impact of human actions on nature. The movie shows how the forest, home to Pete and Elliott, is threatened by a logging company, highlighting the need to care for and preserve natural habitats.
Building Friendships: The deep bond between Pete and Elliott teaches children the value of building friendships. Their relationship shows how true friends support and protect each other, even in the face of danger, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and trust.
Finding Courage: Children see the significance of finding courage through Pete's actions. He faces numerous challenges to keep Elliott safe, demonstrating bravery and the willingness to stand up for what is right, even when it's difficult.
Importance of Family: The movie illustrates the importance of family as Pete finds a new family who accepts him. This teaches kids about the love and support that family can provide, helping them navigate life's challenges and find a sense of belonging.
Respecting Nature: Respecting nature is highlighted as the story unfolds in the forest, a place of wonder and beauty. Kids learn to appreciate the natural world and understand the need to respect and protect it for future generations.
Other Lessons Learned: Accepting Yourself | Appreciating the Little Things | Believing in the Power of Home | Choosing Forgiveness | Defining What Home Means | Embracing Differences | Holding Onto Hope | Keeping an Open Mind | Letting Go of the Past | Making a Difference | Supporting Your Friends | Trusting Intuition | Valuing Deep Connection
Why Kids Love Pete's Dragon
Pete's Dragon is a magical adventure that sweeps kids into a world where dragons are real and friendships are boundless. The enchanting bond between Pete and his dragon, Elliott, is filled with fun and excitement as they soar through the skies in thrilling flying scenes. Kids will be captivated by the bright, colorful world of the forest, where every corner holds a new discovery and the promise of unexpected friendships. The movie is a delightful mix of fantasy and reality, where magical mentors and animal friends guide Pete on his journey.
As Pete navigates the challenges of protecting his dragon friend, kids will be drawn to the action-packed moments and the heartwarming connections that form along the way. With its blend of adventure, humor, and the joy of exploring nature, Pete's Dragon is a captivating tale that keeps kids entertained and dreaming of their own fantastical adventures.