Pete's Dragon Vs Puff The Magic Dragon
Dragons have always been a fascinating subject for people of all ages. The mythical creature has found its way into our books, movies, and even our daily conversations. Two of the most popular dragons to have graced our screens are Pete's Dragon and Puff the Magic Dragon. While both have left an indelible mark on our childhood memories, they have distinct differences that set them apart. In this article, we will take a closer look at Pete's Dragon and Puff the Magic Dragon and compare them in terms of their origins, personalities, and cultural impact.
Origins
Pete's Dragon is a 1977 American musical fantasy film produced by Walt Disney Productions. It tells the story of a young orphan boy named Pete who has a dragon friend named Elliot. The movie is a live-action and animated musical film directed by Don Chaffey and stars Helen Reddy, Mickey Rooney, and Jim Dale. Pete's Dragon is based on an unpublished short story by Seton I. Miller and S.S. Field, which was first developed in 1957. The dragon in the movie is a friendly green dragon who can turn invisible at will.
Puff the Magic Dragon, on the other hand, is a popular children's song written by Leonard Lipton and Peter Yarrow. The song was first recorded by the folk group Peter, Paul and Mary in 1963. The song tells the story of a magical dragon named Puff and his adventures with a little boy named Jackie Paper. The song became popular in the 1960s and has since been covered by various artists. Puff the Magic Dragon is a purely fictional dragon and has no physical representation in the media.
Personalities
Pete's Dragon is a friendly dragon who forms a close bond with the young orphan boy Pete. Elliot, the dragon, is depicted as a loyal and protective friend who helps Pete escape from his abusive adoptive family. Elliot is also shown as a clumsy dragon who has a habit of accidentally causing damage. However, his good intentions and kind heart make up for his mistakes.
Puff the Magic Dragon, on the other hand, is a dragon who lives in a land called Honalee. Puff is depicted as a lonely dragon who befriends Jackie Paper, a little boy. The song implies that Jackie grows up and forgets about his friend Puff, which makes Puff sad. Puff is shown as a kind and gentle dragon who loves to play and have fun with his friend Jackie.
Cultural Impact
Pete's Dragon was a commercial success and received positive reviews from audiences and critics alike. The movie's success led to the creation of a stage musical adaptation, theme park attractions, and a 2016 live-action and computer-animated remake. The friendly dragon, Elliot, has become an iconic character in pop culture and is often referenced in various forms of media.
Puff the Magic Dragon, on the other hand, has become a beloved children's song that has been part of many generations' childhood memories. The song's popularity has led to various adaptations, including children's books, TV shows, and movies. While Puff himself may not have a physical representation in the media, the song and its lyrics have become a cultural phenomenon.
Conclusion
While both Pete's Dragon and Puff the Magic Dragon share the common theme of a friendly dragon, they are distinct in terms of their origins, personalities, and cultural impact. Pete's Dragon is a fictional character that was created for a movie and has since become a pop culture icon, while Puff the Magic Dragon is a children's song that has become a cultural phenomenon. Both have left an indelible mark on our childhood memories and will continue to be remembered by future generations.