“If we don’t stop and learn to trust one another again, it’s only a matter of time before we tear each other apart.” —Chief Benja

If nothing else, Disney will always deliver when it comes to powerful quotes that can inspire viewers and also provide wisdom. “Raya and the Last Dragon” was no exception. This movie was filled with quotes that provided wisdom and hope, touching the hearts of viewers. I would be lying if I said that at a few moments within the movie I was not moved to tears.

When I viewed the official trailer of “Raya and the Dragon,” I was not so sure if I would like it; however, I am pleased to say that I was wrong. It is a great movie. The look into Asian culture was very enlightening for me and made me want to learn more.

Although I found the movie enjoyable, there was one major issue. To watch this movie on Disney Plus, viewers have to pay $29.99 plus tax, even with a Disney Plus subscription. The alternative would be to risk going out to movie theatres in the middle of a pandemic. I find this pricing to be a bit unrealistic; movie tickets in Greensboro, NC, would normally cost around $10 to $11 for adults and $6 to $8 for children. 

I guess for families with multiple children, the $29.99 would be cheaper compared to what they would spend in a theatre on the movie, popcorn, candy, drinks, etc. However, I feel that if you’re already paying $6.99 for the subscription, you shouldn’t have to pay $29.99 plus tax to view the movie. If they had to add an extra charge to view the movie earlier than its intended release date, it should be no more than $10 to $15.

Despite the unfortunate pricing I had to pay to watch the movie, I had a pleasant experience watching “Raya and the Last Dragon.” The message about trust and unity despite differences can be very relatable to today’s climate. 

“You look around at the world and you see that people are using our differences as a way to divide rather than to come together to embrace it,” said Osnat Shurer, the producer of the film.

We often judge others who are different from ourselves; we don’t try to understand their culture, their beliefs, etc. Instead we allow our ignorance and close-mindedness to create division between ourselves and others. 

The message in “Raya and the Last Dragon” is that it’s okay to have differences. We can still live in peace and harmony with those who are not the same as ourselves; we do not have to be isolated from one another. I am looking forward to a world with more unity and understanding. 

The other main message in “Raya and the Last Dragon” is that it is never too late to do the right thing. You can be redeemed even if you have done wrong before. 

“It’s not just about a magical creature… it’s that you do the right thing – even though you lose everything,” said Adele Kim, the film’s screenwriter. “You lose people and things that are dear to you, people betray you, you are let down, you are beat down, but (Raya) gets up, she reaches out… and that to us is a hero.”

I would recommend this movie. I loved the underlying message about unity and trust. However, I’m not so sure I would recommend paying for the premiere access, unless, of course, you would rather pay more to watch it at home than go to the theatre.