Pete's Dragon
Seen it?1977 | 128 min | Fantasy, Animation, Comedy, Family
Weeknight WatchWhy it’s a Weeknight Watch
It's still drawing plenty of interest, but middling reviews (56% on Rotten Tomatoes) and a lukewarm 6.3 out of 10 from audiences held it back. Fine if it's on; don't plan your night around it.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Is it for you?
- Who'll love it
- Made for anyone who wants a laugh, fantasy fans and families.
- The mood
- Light and funny, feel-good.
- The pace
- Breezy, at 2 hr 8 min.
- What might put you off
- Made in 1977: an older pace and style.
Pete, a young orphan, runs away to a Maine fishing town with his best friend a lovable, sometimes invisible dragon named Elliott! When they are taken in by a kind lighthouse keeper, Nora, and her father, Elliott's prank playing lands them in big trouble. Then, when crooked salesmen try to capture Elliott for their own gain, Pete must attempt a daring rescue.
How it earned its rating
- CriticsBelow par
56% on Rotten Tomatoes, 46 on Metacritic
- AudiencesBelow par
6.3 out of 10
- AwardsSolid
Nominated for 2 Oscars and 1 Golden Globe.
- Reach & staying powerSolid
Streaming release that reached a modest audience; still draws a steady audience long after release
- Buzz & cultural impactStrong
About 155K people sought it out in the past year
Trailer
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Cast & crew
Directed by Don Chaffey
- Sean MarshallPete
- Helen ReddyNora
- Jim DaleDr. Terminus
- Mickey RooneyLampie
- Red ButtonsHoagy
- Shelley WintersLena Gogan
- Jane KeanMiss Taylor
- Jim BackusThe Mayor
- Charles TynerMerle
- Gary MorganGrover