The Reluctant Dragon

About The Reluctant Dragon

The Reluctant Dragon is a 1941 American live-action and animated movie produced by Walt Disney Productions and directed by Alfred Werker. Based upon the Kenneth Grahame's 1898 children's story of the same name, the movie intertwines a live-action tour of the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California, wrapped around a series of animated morality tales presented by humorist Robert Benchley. The dragon of the title, as designed by Disney animator and creator of Bambi, is shown as a gentle creature, more interested in writing poetry than breathing fire, hence the title of ‘The Reluctant Dragon’.

Making / Production

The Reluctant Dragon was an innovative experiment for Disney, combining live-action and animation. The segments of the movie that were animated were done so with top-quality animation that would become a Disney trademark, and the live-action segments bring an insightful look into the behind-the-scenes workings of the Walt Disney Studios. This blend of mediums makes the film a fascinating part of Disney history.

Actors

• Robert Benchley as himself, provides a humorous and amiable guide to the Disney Studios. His comedic timing and warm nature lend credence to the live-action portions of the film.
• Frances Gifford as herself, offers a fun and vivacious energy in her role.
• Albert Hurter as himself, showcases how interesting and detailed his contribution to the Disney magic in animation can be.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie cost $600,000 to make, a hefty sum for the time.
• The title character, the Dragon, doesn't appear until about an hour into the movie.
• It is one of the very few Disney films to be in the public domain in other countries, but still under copyright in the US.

Awards

While The Reluctant Dragon was not recognized with any awards, it's been widely recognized as landmark film, bridging Disney’s early years with their golden age of animation.

Quotes

• "I'd make a deal with him, boy. Become his personal squire. With all the knightly leftovers as your very own."
• "Bless my buttons, a real live boy!"
• "Oh no, not that! It's so messy! I've heard of a dragon, sir, but I've never had the honor of meeting one before."

Music, Soundtrack

• "The Reluctant Dragon" – Title song, brings an air of the fantasy display.
• "The Mighty Hunter" – A delightful song told in a humorous light.
• "The Boy Who Could Fly" – A charming and uplifting melody that characterizes the animated portion of the film.