The Flight of Dragons

In the film, a modern day man is drawn into a world he could only have imagined in his wildest dreams when he is suddenly spirited away into the service of a kindly Wizard, to help defeat the forces of darkness in a realm of fantasy. Although not exactly a new concept, it has a unique twist, for this is no ordinary man, he is a man of science and reason with a unique connection to this realm....

Visually the film was a feast for the eyes - filled with exquisitely designed characters - fearsome creatures, colorful wizards, dashing heroes, and beautiful ethereal maidens (and best of all, no cutesy Disney-ish characters for comedy relief). Although the animation lacked the type of enhanced visuals, hyperkinetic action, and 3-D realism of later works of animation, I think that was not such a bad thing in this case. Although the animation looked a bit flat, such careful use of elegant simplicity actually enhanced this film - like a beautifully illustrated fairy tale book brought to life. The film featured a fine voice cast of well known Hollywood actors (John Ritter, James Earl Jones, etc.) who really seemed to be enjoying their roles.

It's still a favorite after all these years. It's a shame that it never got the greater recognition it deserved, while lifeless formulaic Disney fluff like Snow White, Cinderella, etc. became classics. But I guess that's the power of big corporation and marketing. I bet things would not have been so if this film was produced and distributed by Disney as opposed to Rankin and Bass.

Although I now own a brand new copy of the latest tape, I must admit the childish and somewhat ugly cover art is a bit deceptive. Artistically it does this film no justice, but I guess from a marketing point of view, if it enhances sales and hence greater recognition, so be it. I guess there is a method to their madness.... Anyway, enjoy!


This is my long time favorite movie.   September 30, 1999
17 out of 17 found this review helpful

Flight of Dragons is by far my most favorite movie. I saw it for the first time some 10 years ago or so and I still watch it every now and then when ever I have the time. I am, as the shop keeper would put it, "a dragon fanatic." I love the way dragon flight and fire are explained and how, theoretically, they would work. I do however wish the dragons wouldn't have been portrayed as being so clumsy and awkward. If you have read much of dragons you would know that, for the most part, they are graceful and intelligent. The mix of fantasy and logic is captivating and the plot to save magic before it is utterly destroyed is awesome. I would highly recommend this movie to anyone, even if the cover art looks like a childs coloring book illustration. The actual animation is great, especially the dragons.


A beautiful story for children from ages 5 to 95   November 9, 2000
Kristine Fonacier (Panic, United States of Mind)
15 out of 15 found this review helpful

First of all, don't judge this film by its cover. I have no idea why the cover art on this looks so goofy when the animation is nothing like it. The cover might also give the impression that this is a cartoon for kids, but it's much deeper and more meaningful than that.

The story can be enjoyed on many levels. It's certainly entertaining enough to enchant any child who appreciates a good adventure/ fantasy story, but it also has some pretty profound thoughts about the presence and importance of magic and imagination in a world dominated by science and logic. Whoever wrote the dialogue on this is certainly very talented: Watch out for Carolinus' speeches in particular. It can raise goosebumps, it's so beautiful.

Like many other people who've sought out this VHS release, I first saw this years ago, when I was around nine or ten years old. This is my third copy, after wearing out the tape I made off've TV, and later lending out my second copy (a gift to me which I was overjoyed to receive) which never returned to me. I like it enough to purchase yet another copy for my permanent video collection. It has lost none of its appeal over the years.