Quantcast
49.5 F
Chicago
Sponsor Message

PETE’S DRAGON “High-Flying Edition” (DVD Review)

Filed Under:

Published:

This article is more than 15 years old and may not have been updated since our last site redesign. It may contain outdated information or could be missing images.
Originally Posted on STARLOG
As far as Disney reissues go, they seem to be breaking that “Seven Years in the Vault” a bit as the last time PETE’S DRAGON hit DVD was a “Gold Collection” release in 2001, just over 8 years ago.

Now the film is back, sans the usual “Platinum” packaging with PETE’S DRAGON – THE HIGH-FLYING EDITION, which arrived at retail last week. 

The story of an orphan (Pete, played by Sean Marshall) and his invisible best friend, Elliott (a kind-hearted fire-breathing dragon), this 1977 film was nominated for two Academy Awards, numerous Saturns, and a Golden Globe. The duo finds themselves on the run from Pete’s adoptive parents, landing in a coastal town where they take shelter in a lighthouse cared for by a young woman and her father. Pete and Elliott have a habit of creating mischief, and naturally a good-natured adventure ensues – but not without placing the titular dragon in peril due to some rabid townsfolk.

Combining live-action with animation, the film looks great on DVD even though the overall presentation is very dated. Still, new audiences of youngsters should be captivated by the music and story, even though Elliott never looks as good on-screen as he appears on the film’s slick DVD cover art.

Of greater interest to older viewers will be the film’s bonus features, which offer a significant improvement over previous releases. For those interested in the technical aspects of then-impressive animation, or the genesis of the film’s highly-regarded music, the bonus features are a must. 

3 out of 4 stars

The Debut of the RUN DMC x Igloo Cooler Collection | Shop Now

Recent Stories:

Sponsor Message

The Toy Book:

Sponsor Message

Rock Father Rides:

Sponsor Message
Entertainment Earth
Sponsor Message
Sponsor Message Fandango Gift Cards