uhoh HOT DOG!

Because of when Raya and the Last Dragon came out, buzz around it wasn't huge. Noting how little I'd heard about it, I went in expecting a visually and artistically beautiful film, but not something that rivalled the dozens of Disney movies that have preceded it. I was so wrong. This movie has the artistic beauty I expected; it's visually stunning and the animation is impeccable. But the story touched me in a way I haven't been touched by a Disney princess film in a long time. The characters and story related to me so deeply, more than I ever could have expected. Themes of love, loss, trust, unity, and friendship are woven beautifully through the story, they are handled and portrayed realistically, yet delicately. The experiences and emotions hit you with a balance and duality that is strong in the film, they throw you down with the same power seen in the thrilling combat scenes, while lifting you up with the grace of the alluring magic that brightens up the screen. The heroes are real and inspiring, showing that strength, compassion, brains, and heart are not only able to coexist, but together, form a person we should all strive to be. In our times, after what all of us across the world have gone through in these past few years, this film cannot be more topical, as it brilliantly highlights the unity necessary to bring us all the healing we need. The lessons in Raya and the Last Dragon are timeless, making it sure to be a classic for years and years to come. It will make you laugh, marvel at the sheer artistic brilliance, and almost definitely cry. Everyone should see this movie, just prepare to be blown away.