The ending of My Father’s Dragon shows Elmer and Boris saving Wild Island. Boris learns to fly, lifting the island and preventing it from sinking. Elmer returns home, having learned valuable lessons about courage and family.
My Father’s Dragon, a 2022 animated film, tells the story of a boy named Elmer and a dragon named Boris. They embark on a quest to save Wild Island from sinking. The film, directed by Nora Twomey, is based on a 1948 children’s novel by Ruth Stiles Gannett. It premiered at the BFI London Film Festival and later released on Netflix.
Plot Summary
Elmer and his mother, Dela, run a retail store that goes bankrupt. They move to the city of Nevergreen, where Elmer feels unhappy. Their new apartment is small, and the landlady is strict. Elmer dreams of opening a new store, but his mother struggles to find work. Frustrated, Elmer runs away from home.
Elmer meets a talking cat who tells him about Wild Island and a dragon named Boris who needs help. Elmer decides to travel to Wild Island to save Boris and the island. When he arrives, he finds Boris chained and unable to fly. Together, they set out to save the island.
Key Events Leading to the Ending
Elmer and Boris face many challenges on their journey. They encounter ferocious tigers, crocodiles, and Saiwa’s scouts. Saiwa, a gruff gorilla and the island’s ruler, captures Boris. Elmer manages to free him. They also meet a rhinoceros named Iris and her calf. Initially, Iris berates Elmer for freeing Boris but later helps them.
They learn about an old tortoise named Aratuah, who might have the answers to save the island. However, they find Aratuah’s empty shell and a pile of bones, realizing the tortoise has long perished. Disheartened, they continue their journey, determined to find another way to save Wild Island.
The Climax and Resolution
The climax occurs when Elmer and Boris discover the key to saving Wild Island lies within themselves. Boris, initially portrayed as cowardly, finds his courage and learns to fly. This ability allows him to lift the island and prevent it from sinking. Elmer learns the importance of self-belief and determination.
In the final moments, Boris successfully lifts Wild Island, stabilizing it and saving its inhabitants. Elmer returns home to Nevergreen and reunites with his mother. The experience teaches him valuable lessons about resilience, courage, and the importance of family. The film ends on a hopeful note, with Elmer and his mother looking forward to a brighter future.
Themes and Analysis
My Father’s Dragon explores themes like courage, self-belief, and family. Boris, who starts as a cowardly dragon, undergoes significant growth, finding his wings and courage. This transformation symbolizes the journey many children undergo as they face their fears and grow into their potential.
Elmer’s journey is one of self-discovery. Initially running away from his problems, he learns that true courage lies in facing challenges head-on. His relationship with Boris highlights the importance of friendship and mutual support in overcoming obstacles.
The film’s animation style, characterized by Cartoon Saloon’s hand-crafted artistry, adds to its charm. The use of TVPaint Animation for character animation and Toon Boom Harmony for effects creates a visually appealing aesthetic that complements the story’s whimsical and heartfelt nature.
Reception
My Father’s Dragon received positive reviews for its storytelling, animation, and emotional depth. Critics praised the film for its gentle and earnest approach, which stands out in a landscape dominated by high-concept, frenetic animated features. The film’s focus on traditional storytelling and hand-crafted artistry was stated as a refreshing change from the norm.
Conclusion
My Father’s Dragon is a heartwarming tale that resonates with audiences of all ages. Its exploration of themes such as courage, self-belief, and the importance of family, combined with its unique animation style, makes it a standout film in the animated genre. The ending, which sees Boris and Elmer saving Wild Island and learning valuable life lessons, presents a satisfying and emotionally rewarding conclusion to their journey.
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