Dragon Rider

Three unlikely companions set off on a quest that sounds like a dream and danger rolled together. Firedrake the dragon teams with Ben, a brave but wary boy, and Sorrell, a quick witted forest brownie. Their aim is the Rim of Heaven, a mythic sanctuary where dragons could live free from persecution. The trio faces perilous terrain, strange allies, and cunning traps as they push beyond familiar forests into uncharted lands. Along the way, they build trust, learn each other’s secrets, and discover that the true treasure isn’t a destination but the courage to keep moving when darkness closes in. Nettlebrand, a feared hunter, watches their every step.

Directed by Tomer Eshed, Dragon Rider adapts Cornelia Funke’s beloved novel for the screen, pairing lush fantasy visuals with a story about friendship and resilience. It is a European led animation project designed for family audiences, with a budget of 17.8 million dollars.

Critics note the film’s warm tone and steady emphasis on trust, loyalty, and sacrifice. The adventure blends humor with danger, presenting a path where characters grow by listening to each other and choosing courage over fear.

Though not a box office phenomenon, Dragon Rider contributes to the growing line of animated adaptations of beloved books. Its voice cast—Thomas Brodie-Sangster as Firedrake, Freddie Highmore as Ben, Felicity Jones as Sorrell, Patrick Stewart as Nettlebrand and Sanjeev Bhaskar as Mad Doc—gives the story warmth and character.