Background:
My partner, my son and I watched the 2016 remake of Pete’s Dragon for the first time. I’m not entirely sure why but I somehow missed that it had even been made. We only noticed it when browsing through Disney+ looking for a new family film to watch. We all loved the new version; great animation, story update and, most importantly, a great dragon! It prompted a rewatch of the 1977 Disney original too which, in turn, has also prompted me to write this blog, exploring the differences between the 2 versions…
Introduction:
In the world of cinematic classics, “Pete’s Dragon” stands out as a heartwarming tale of friendship between a young boy and his dragon companion. Over the years, this beloved story has been retold in two distinctive versions: the original 1977 classic and the 2016 remake. Let’s embark on a journey of comparison and discover what makes each of these films special.
Plot:
1977 Version:
The 1977 rendition revolves around Pete, a young boy escaping his troubled life with the help of his animated dragon pal, Elliott. Together, they embark on a series of adventures, eventually leading Pete to find a loving new family.
2016 Version:
The 2016 adaptation maintains the essence of the story but brings it into the modern era. It follows Pete, an orphaned boy surviving in the forest with his dragon friend, Elliott. When discovered by a forest ranger and her family, they set out to uncover the mysteries of Pete’s past and the existence of the dragon.
Visual Effects:
1977 Version:
The original film employed a blend of traditional animation and live-action sequences for Elliott, which, although charming for its time, may appear somewhat dated to today’s audiences.
2016 Version:
In the 2016 remake, state-of-the-art CGI technology brings Elliott to life with stunning realism. The visual effects in this version enhance the magic of the dragon, offering a visual feast for modern viewers.
Tone and Atmosphere:
1977 Version:
The 1977 classic maintains a whimsical and nostalgic tone, thanks to its mix of live-action and animation, contributing to its timeless charm.
2016 Version:
The 2016 adaptation infuses a slightly more dramatic and emotional atmosphere, providing depth to the characters and their relationships. It retains the sense of wonder while adding a contemporary touch.
Cast:
1977 Version:
The original film featured notable actors of its time, including Helen Reddy, Jim Dale, and Mickey Rooney, who left their mark on the era’s cinema.
2016 Version:
The 2016 remake introduced a fresh ensemble, including Bryce Dallas Howard, Robert Redford, and Oakes Fegley, who brought a contemporary perspective to the timeless story.
Music:
1977 Version:
The original film boasts a memorable soundtrack, with songs like “Candle on the Water,” composed by Al Kasha and Joel Hirschhorn, which earned an Academy Award nomination.
2016 Version:
The 2016 adaptation features a new soundtrack but pays homage to the original by referencing some of the classic songs, providing a melodic connection to the past.
Conclusion:
Both the 1977 classic and the 2016 remake of “Pete’s Dragon” have their unique appeal, catering to different generations. The original is cherished for its nostalgic charm, while the remake offers a visually stunning and emotionally engaging modern take on the classic story. Whether you lean towards the whimsical charm of the past or the contemporary depth of the present, “Pete’s Dragon” continues to weave its timeless magic, captivating audiences of all ages and underscoring the enduring power of friendship and wonder.
If you would like to watch either version of Pete’s Dragon, they are both available to stream now on Disney+
