If you love movies like Raya and the Dragon, How to Train Your Dragon and Pete’s Dragon, you’ll love the animated film Dragonkeeper. The Spanish-Chinese animated fantasy adventure is one of those films that transports you to an enchanting world filled with magic and dragons.

As the name suggests, it features a dragon and a girl as its keeper. Set in ancient China, the movie follows a young slave girl, Ping, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery which soon turns into a thrilling adventure as she meets a wise, ancient dragon ‘Danzi’, who entrusts her with the protection of a dragon egg — the last hope for their species.

Ping, voiced by Mayalinee Griffiths, quickly bonds with the two dragons as she has never seen any of her parents. The death of one of the dragons deeply affects Ping and spurs her transformation from a frightened girl to a determined protector. Danzi, voiced by Bill Nighy, and Ping join hands to fight those after the last of the dragon eggs.

Based on a 2003 children’s book by Australian author Carole Wilkinson, the film also highlights the difference between the grand, fancy palaces of the emperors and the poor, struggling villages showing the unfairness in the story. It highlights the themes of inequality and the villagers’ fight to survive, which are important throughout the movie.

The movie imparts important lessons to kids, emphasising growth, responsibility and hope. The dragon egg symbolises new beginnings and hope, and Ping’s role as its protector underscores how individuals can nurture and preserve good in the world. The fantasy story encourages the protection of endangered animals, like the dragons in the film.

The animated depictions of the Chinese countryside are splendidly picturesque. The music complements the emotional beats of the story, enhancing everything from the serene moments between Ping and Danzi to the high-stakes action sequences. The traditional instruments add authenticity, grounding the fantasy within the cultural context of ancient China.

Under the direction of Salvador Simó, this 98-minute film captivates with stunning visuals and delivers a heartfelt narrative that resonates with all ages. A family-friendly movie, it encourages kids to believe in themselves, take responsibility for their actions and cherish the things that matter.

Published in Dawn, Young World, October 12th, 2024