Raya and the Last Dragon Celebrates Southeast Asian Culture written by Michael Lee January 26, 2021
Walt Disney Animation Studio’s “Raya and the Last Dragon” is a celebration of representation on several fronts. Though Disney is no stranger to the region, having released films like “Aladdin” and “Mulan,” “Raya” is the first of Disney’s animated features to be inspired by Southeast Asia. And not only is Southeast Asian culture present in the visuals and story, but it is also in the voices that you’ll hear and the creative team behind the production of the film.
Growing up in Malaysia, co-writer and producer Adele Lim has fond memories of honoring family tradition and having fun recreating Disney magic. She recalled how her grandmother loved all things Disney. So much so that she would put on plays based on their films for their friends and family. Her grandmother was a living connection to their traditions. Between the stories that