Video/DVD Review: Dragonheart
What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that even children who are usually
frightened by movie dragons might not find this dragon scary.
The language is palatable for both kids and adults. There are a
few action scenes of sword fighting and dragon slaying, yet
they relate to the movie's messages about loyalty, duty, and
social responsibility.
Families can talk about myths and legends, such as the
Arthurian legends. They might also discuss the idea of tyranny
and a ruler's responsibility to those he rules. Concepts of
sacrifice, duty, chivalry, and the threat of endangered species
may also be good talking points.
DRAGONHEART is a heartwarming tale that follows the story of Bowen (Dennis Quaid), a once-chivalrous knight who has since strayed from his path to become a for-profit dragon slayer. His greedy nature compels him to slay enough dragons to threaten the existence of the species. Bowen must face the death and destruction he has caused when he meets Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), the last of the dragons. To extend the career of Bowen (now the last of the dragon slayers), the two strike up a shrewd deal to "act out" slayings. Eventually their traveling show leads them to a kingdom where Bowen and Draco must face the tyrant King Einon (David Thewlis), with whom they share a history.
The fantasy world of Dragonheart has less depth than those of Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter, but it still remains an enchanting place where dragons roam and knights follow codes of chivalry. The movie addresses issues of social responsibility and as in all good fairy tales, characters must come to terms with their decisions -- for better or for worse.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's StoneThe Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
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