Synopsis
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.
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Cast
- Sean MarshallPete
- Helen ReddyNora
- Jim DaleDr. Terminus
- Mickey RooneyLampie
- Red ButtonsHoagy
- Shelley WintersLena Gogan
- Jane KeanMiss Taylor
- Jim BackusThe Mayor
- Charles TynerMerle
- Gary MorganGrover
- 70
Variety
Pete’s Dragon is an enchanting and humane fable which introduces a most lovable animal star (albeit an animated one). - 60
The New York Times
At two hours and 14 minutes, the movie is a lot longer than it needs to be. On the other hand, Elliott (whose beeps and bomps and chomping sounds are supplied by Charlie Callas) is very sweet and emotive, and you don't often see children's musicals as ambitious as this one any more. - 40
Empire
The film seems to be pitched at shrieking level, as if that’s the only timbre children can register. - 40
TV Guide Magazine
The film lacks the emotional complexity and classic status of previous Disney films. - 37
Washington Post
"Dragon" was apparently meant to be a big, rousing musical comedy-fantasy, but it's staged and photographed without musical-comedy energy, flair or coordination. [17 Dec 1977, p.D7]