Synopsis
Tom and Jerry: The Lost Dragon is a 2014 direct-to-video animated fantasy comedy film starring the iconic animated characters, and one part of the duo, Jerry, is legally a prop. Tom and Jerry is also considered one of the biggest cartoons of all time, starring the biggest animated icons of the 20th century and being part of Hollywood slapstick royalty. The film was also part of the second golden age of Hollywood animation when cartoons were focused and constructed around feature length films, and films would be hand animated and tested in syncronization with sound. Films part of this age were feature Hollywood animations, and this film was directed by Spike Brandt and produced by Warner Bros.
This film also adds a different approach with the Ante movies in the series, with this film being the first in the series that adds a fusion of endearing lovable charms and a deeply embedded moral compass in reminding the audience the aforementioned attributes that all civilizations and societies should possess: friendship, kindness, and responsibility.
The film opens with Tom and Jerry in the enchanting land as the house guests of a little girl named Athena, who operates a magical animal academy and is also one of the enchanting land characters. The characters in this enchanting land also portray positive social and magical attributes. In helping tell the positive attributes of the characters, the film shows back story of Athena that discloses that she is magical attributed unlike the wicked character of the land and also describes her character in the enchanting land.
While taking a stroll in a quiet woodland area, Jerry happens upon a glowing dragon egg. He crates it to Athena’s cottage, where it hatches, and they name the baby dragon Puff. Puff forges a quick and strong bond with Jerry, and the two become best pals. Tom is skeptical at first, but Puff’s appeal convinces him otherwise.
The situation changes, however, when it is said a baby dragon is in the area. As it draws the attention of the villagers and the magical council, they become concerned with the legend that said dragons are forbidden in the land. Also, Drizelda finds out and attempts to kidnap Puff in a plot to regain her former powers and control over the kingdom.
To execute her scheme, Drizelda puts her magical friends and Puff’s companions in a situation where they must be taught the values of unity, compassion, and courage as they try to protect Puff from danger.
In the film, the Tom and Jerry series humor is interlaced with elements of emotional progression, adventure, and collaborative effort.
Main Characters
Tom
The iconic gray cat in the series, Tom, is just as expressive and energetic as ever. While in the beginning, he is competitive with Jerry, he becomes responsible and protective as the story moves forward, especially when it comes to Puff. Apart from his slapstick antics, there is a more heroic side to him which the viewers get to see in the story, and for that, he still gets comic relief in the adventures he goes on.
Jerry
Jerry is curious, clever, caring, and reinforced as Puff’s protector and guide. His gentle approach to anything is Tom’s rough personality. He and Tom make a perfect pair for any challenge as Jerry’s gentle nature runs in stark contrast to Tom’s rough personality, and together they face any challenge.
Athena
Athena plays a central role in the movie as the kind-hearted, determined, and misunderstood character that embodies hope and change. Her strong role-model qualities for the younger viewers in the movie is her determination to do good and care for the animals that, despite her connection with Drizelda, is a positive force for change.
Puff the Baby Dragon
Puff is an adorable and playful character who steals the show. With expressive eyes and a friendly demeanor, Puff represents innocence and the importance of being accepted for who you are. His journey of discovery and safety is the emotional heart of the movie.
Drizelda
Drizelda serves as the film’s primary antagonist. Although the characterization is on the lighter side and is exaggerated for children, she does introduce some minor suspense into the film. Drizelda is motivated by greed and seeks to exploit Puff for her own selfish objectives. Nevertheless, her plans are brought to nothing by the unity and courage of the protagonists.
Themes and Messages
- Friendship and Teamwork
Tom and Jerry: The Lost Dragon delivers the fundamental lesson that assisting one another leads to unity and success. In the film, Tom and Jerry, who are usually rivals, set aside their differences to defend Puff, illustrating how even the most unexpected partnerships are able to accomplish major feats.
- Kindness and Compassion
Athena’s devotion to helping mystical creatures and her nurturing relationship with Puff reflect the value of compassion. The film’s message reinforces the importance of looking past façade and bias, and encourages audiences to show kindness to others, even when it is challenging.
- Redemption and Identity
Athena’s character arc attempts to demonstrate that she is unshackled from the burdens of her past and the reputation of her family. Hence, it is a powerful statement on self-identity, integrity, and that everyone deserves to have a chance to be evaluated based on their actions.
- Responsibility and Growth
Even the naughty Tom and Jerry portray growth and take on Puff’s well-being. The film promotes the responsibility of caring for others. The film suggests it is rewarding to take responsibility for others, particularly those smaller and less able to defend themselves.
Animation and Visual Style
The animation in Tom and Jerry: The Lost Dragon is bright and colorful. The magical setting invokes imaginative costumes. The enchanted castles, and whimsical creatures, rambling forests, and glowing magical eggs are simply refreshing. The Tom and Jerry character designs have maintained their classical style and incorporated fantasy elements worthy of a fairytale.
The film is warm and inviting to the eye. The backgrounds are rich, and textured. The film increased the fantasy by exaggerating motion. Animation slapstick is a cherished tradition and boosting fantasy is a welcome improvement.
Music and Sound
Each film score is magical and light in the맞 흐므로 which def and enhances the mood of each scene. The scenes are a good mixture of playful mischief, heartfelt moments, and tension release during the suspenseful chases. Tom and Jerry are renowned for their slapstick style and crazed energetic improvisation and the frantic, chaotic style enhances focus, to the action and humor, and the emotion of characters.
As anticipated, the primary characters in Tom and Jerry have little to no voice acting. However, the voice acting for one of the secondary characters, Athena and Drizelda, is performed in an audience friendly and enjoyable manner for children.
Reception and IMDb Rating
Tom and Jerry: The Lost Dragon seems to have a favorable response from families and children, having an IMDb rating of 5.9/10. The rating seems to imply that though the movie may not be a great work of cinema, it still deserves praise for being an enjoyable and heartwarming children’s adventure.
Highlights from the Audience:
Parents rated the movie highly due to it being positive, safe, and clean for kids.
Fans appreciated the magical story and the fusion of classic Tom and Jerry humor.
Children particularly enjoyed the bright colors and the baby dragon named Puff.
Critic Comments:
The charm is highly predictable, but, that there is ideal for younger audiences.
The movie presents something new while still honoring The Tom and Jerry dynamics.
Final Thoughts
Tom and Jerry: The Lost Dragon is a new animated adventure to be enjoyed. The movie confidence in children centers around friendship, and courage. The movie also offers an inspirational message. It’s charm, classic magical story of Tom and Jerry makes it a great animated adventure.
The film is perfect for family audiences. Even the most renowned cat-and-mouse duo is capable of growth, change, and collaboration when the situation calls for it. This film provides audiences, old and new, with Tom and Jerry with joy, humor, and a touch of enchantment.
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