Raya is Disney firing on most cylinders—gorgeous animation, cultural depth, and a genuinely sophisticated emotional arc about learning to trust after trauma. It's not the light-hearted romp the trailers suggested; this is heavier fare with on-screen parental death, betrayal as a central theme, and a shocking character death in act three (don't worry, magic fixes it).

The Southeast Asian inspiration is beautifully realized and feels respectful rather than superficial. Sisu the dragon is a comedic highlight—awkward, earnest, and shaped like a pool noodle—providing levity against Raya's brooding warrior energy.

The trust-versus-cynicism theme is genuinely complex and relevant, especially post-2020 when everyone was choosing sides about everything. It's a great conversation starter for older elementary kids about forgiveness, bridge-building, and whether optimism is naive or necessary.

That said, this isn't Moana-level rewatchable for most families. It's a bit heavy, a bit long, and the emotional beats can feel like homework. Solid choice for a meaningful family movie night, but probably not the one your kids will beg to watch 47 times.