Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Pete's Dragon

film

Pete's Dragon

1977

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.

Ages 6+Source checked

Why this age? Generally suitable family fantasy, but young viewers may find Pete's orphan status, mistreatment by adults, danger to Elliott, and tense rescue scenes upsetting. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age6+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Violence2/5
  • Alcohol or drugs1/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

The film is a Disney property, but its story is not primarily a sales pitch or built around real product placement.

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

No character deaths occur in the film.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Language is entirely G-rated and family-friendly.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

Contains very mild romantic subplot elements typical of family musicals.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

Brief moments of tension when the dragon is threatened by villains, but nothing frightening.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Brief, period-typical depictions of drinking in a tavern setting.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Includes light slapstick comedy and minor scuffles with villainous characters.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Pete shows bravery in standing up for his friend against greedy adults.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

The invisible dragon, musical fantasy, animation-live-action blend, and imaginative adventures strongly encourage playful imagination.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Representation is limited, consistent with 1970s film production standards.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Incidental lessons on friendship and courage.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Caring for Pete and Elliott, offering refuge, and helping friends are important positive elements.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes support friendship, compassion, found family, resisting exploitation, and protecting vulnerable beings.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters demonstrate kindness and protective, positive parenting figures.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in Pete's Dragon would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Pete's Dragon, and what caused that change?
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