Pete's Dragon Review: 6 Ups & 4 Downs

5. Gorgeous Cinematography

Pete S Dragon
Disney

Though the CGI doesn't always pop, Pete's Dragon nevertheless largely remains a visual treat thanks to Bojan Bazelli's terrific cinematography, making the most of the lush New Zealand landscapes while ensuring even the movie's most talky scenes are extremely pleasing to the eye.

Arguably the most memorable shot in the entire movie isn't of Elliott soaring in the sky, but in fact the opening car crash that claims the lives of Pete's parents: as the car flies through the air, Lowery focuses on Pete's expression in slow-motion. It's an image that's both beautiful and incredibly difficult to shake.

Of course, this shouldn't be massively surprising given Lowery's eye for visuals, as he proved in the luscious Ain't Them Bodies Saints. Hopefully the director will find yet another strong visual collaborator for his upcoming live-action take on Peter Pan.

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Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes). General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.