UPDATED with first-look image of the movie. Kelly Marie Tran makes history. Deadline has confirmed that the Star Wars alum has joined the upcoming animated feature of Walt Disney Animation Studios Raya and the last dragon as a titular heroine, as the first Southeast Asian to direct a Disney animated film.
Tran replaces Cassie Steele, who was originally announced at D23 Expo last year as Raya’s voice. Raya and the last dragon is set in the fantasy kingdom of Kumandra and follows a warrior who collaborates with a crew of misfits in their quest to find the Last Dragon and bring light and unity back into their world. Tran deals with Awkawafina, who plays a dragon in human form named Sisu.
Also participate in the Raya and the last dragon team are Don Hall (Big Hero 6, Moana) and Carlos López Estrada (Blindspotting) as directors, such as playwright Qui Nguyen (Vietgone) who will join Adele Lim as co-writer. Paul Briggs and John Ripa serve as co-directors. Dean Wellins, who was originally announced as director alongside Briggs, is directing another project at Disney Animation. Peter Del Vecho (Freeze, Frozen 2) deals with Osnat Shurer (Moana) as a producer.
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As filmmakers, Don and Carlos bring a combination of animation knowledge and emotional storytelling to Raya and the last dragon, bringing our fantasy adventure to surprising, original and dynamic heights, ”said Jennifer Lee, Chief Creative Officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios. “They both saw the potential for this film and had a strong vision for the story, especially for our main character, played by the wonderfully talented Kelly Marie Tran. And no small feat, directors Don and Carlos, writers Qui and Adele, and the full crew of 400 Disney Animation artists make this film together while divorced and working from home. “
Raya and the last dragon is set to debut on March 12, 2021. Watch the first look at the video below.
