Disney released new information about its animated film, Crazy Rich Asians was signed on to write, with longtime Disney alums Paul Briggs, Dean Wellins, and Osnat Shurer tapped as directors and producers.
Originally, Disney did not give much information about the story. It was to follow Raya, a warrior from the fictional realm of Kumandra, as she searches for the last remaining dragon. At the time of the announcement, Disney also confirmed that the film would reflect Southeast Asian culture and myths, particularly using places like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia as inspiration. The initial announcement also included concept art and a November 2020 release date, which has since been pushed back due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The first-look image, shared exclusively by Big Hero 6, along with Blindspotting's Carlos López Estrada. Briggs is staying on as co-director, along with Disney animator John Ripa. American-Vietnamese playwright Qui Nguyen is ing Lim as a co-writer. Shurer is still producing the film, along with Peter Del Vecho, which is largely being created from remote locations—a relative first for Disney.
The first-look picture doesn't give a ton of story information, but it does feature Raya looking like a true warrior. The hero is carrying a mighty sword and wears a flowing red cape as she stares at a landscape that echoes some iconic destinations in Southeast Asia. Raya is also accompanied by Tuk Tuk, her trusty sidekick—because every Disney character needs one—who is described by Hall as half-bear, half-armadillo. Hall shared a few plot details with EW, stating that there's an evil force in the kingdom, represented by the villain Druun, and Raya must find the last dragon to help her save their land.
Overall, the film looks like it'll be a positive step forward in Mulan remake—so this film is incredibly important. It's a perfect follow-up to Moana, which also featured an independent female warrior and a non-white story. As of now, Raya and the Last Dragon is slated to premiere on March 12, 2021.
Source: Entertainment Weekly
