By Cecilia Sarantopoulos
With the beginning of Lunar New Year, which is the Year of the Dragon, just around the corner, what better way to celebrate than to fully immerse ourselves in the spirit of the dragon through these Disney fan favorites?
This streaming guide captures the essence of wisdom, courage, and mythical adventures, where beloved Disney dragons become the perfect companions for this joyous spring festival.
The Reluctant Dragon (1941)
This animated short introduces fans to a dragon who would much rather recite poetry than engage in the traditional dragon-like activities of destruction and mayhem. Celebrate individuality and the power of harmony with this heartwarming tale!
Sleeping Beauty (1959)
Sleeping Beauty features the evil fairy Maleficent in dragon form. This streaming list wouldn’t be complete without a nod to this animated classic featuring the notorious Disney Villain! For even more of the iconic dragon, be sure to watch the live-action films starring Oscar®-winner Angelina Jolie as the fire-breathing dragon in Maleficent (2014) and Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019).
Mulan (1998)
Mulan tells the inspiring tale of a legendary Chinese warrior determined to defy patriarchal norms. Her spirited sidekick, Mushu, is a small dragon that remains steadfast by Mulan’s side. This animated classic is an excellent way to start off the Lunar New Year, beautifully commemorating the strength that dragons symbolize in Chinese culture.
Enchanted (2007)
The magical land of Andalasia collides with the bustling world of New York City in this hybrid animation-live action movie. As these two worlds intertwine, heroine Giselle must navigate a series of obstacles that arise when fantasy and reality merge. Among these challenges is contending with the dragon form of Queen Narissa, known as Dragon Narissa, an adversary nobody wishes to provoke.
Pete’s Dragon (2016)
This fantasy adventure film introduces the world to Elliot: a protective, 24-foot-tall dragon who is the closest thing 6-year-old Pete has to family. An enchanting tale about friendship and companionship, this story reminds fans of all that is important and is perfect for celebrating this Lunar New Year. Want even more Elliot? Then be sure to watch the original 1977 Pete’s Dragon, the live-action/animated musical feature film that follows the friendship of the young orphan and his invisible pet dragon.
Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)
Raya, a brilliant warrior, is determined to find the last remaining dragon in the fantasy world of Kumandra, Sisu. Legends say she’s a divine water being of unspeakable beauty and unstoppable magic… but what Raya finds instead is a funny, self-deprecating dragon who sees herself as the perennial “C-student” who will need to learn how to become the dragon of legend to help save the world with Raya.