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And although the film is not without its flaws, it is another step in the right direction that joyously brings the first Southeast Asian Disney princess to life.Īn opening based on Indonesian puppet theater effectively immerses viewers into the film’s inspired lore, recounting how dragons once brought bountiful prosperity to Kumandra. In its past globally centered narratives, Disney has struggled to sensitively mesh its magical brand of family-friendly whimsy with cultural nuance and accuracy.
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Released on March 5 in theaters and Disney+ Premier Access, “Raya and the Last Dragon” is the studio’s latest 3D-animated outing, telling a wholly original story set in Kumandra – a fantasy world inspired by several Southeast Asian cultures. One live-action remake after another, Disney finally returns to its roots.
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This post was updated March 7 at 4:22 p.m.
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