Dragon Nest: Warriors' Dawn (2014)

Dragon Nest: Warriors' Dawn Poster
Original Title: 龙之谷:破晓奇兵

For years, the land of Altera has observed an uneasy peace between the humans, the elves, and the beasts who are loyal to the legendary Black Dragon. But when the dragon wakes from its hibernation, mobilizing a force of beasts to make war, a small band of humans and elves unite in a search for the secret road to the dragon’s lair.

Introduction
"Dragon Nest: Warriors' Dawn" is a 2014 Chinese animated experience and dream movie directed by Yuefeng Song. Loosely based on the exceptionally popular online game Dragon Nest, the film mesmerizes the audience with spectacular visuals, vibrant combat sequences, and a charming storyline. The narrative involves the journey of Lambert, a young warrior, the discovery of his real destiny, and the inevitable fight versus dragons to save Altera.

Plot Summary
Altera, a gorgeous and magical world, had peace for many years till the scary Black Dragon damaging powers awaken and threatens the existence of all living animals. The four races - Humans, Elves, Beastmen, and Dwarves living quietly in Altera cohabitated in an unified sanctuary. The legend, however, tells of a brave warrior's sword, called the 'Dragon Blade,' which has actually sealed in a piece of the dragon's soul, that can stopping the dragon and ensuring success.

The story follows Lambert, a beginner but brave human warrior who becomes an unlikely hero when he unexpectedly gets the dragon-slaying weapon. He joins an epic journey mission with a band of seasoned adventurers, consisting of Liya, an elf who is likewise a heroine in her own right. They overrun hordes of beasts, survive ancient traps in their search for the dragon's lair, and rise in defense of their races and the world for an epic fight versus this monstrous dragon.

Characters, Art & Action
The film explores relationships and relationships with a sense of humor as we witness the interaction between various characters, including Geraint and Argenta, leaders of the Dragon Slayer's league. These characters come alive with their animation, retaining their identifiable functions from the video game. The animation quality rivals and sometimes goes beyond Western made animated films. The action sequences are fluid and thrilling, with battles including dragons being a noteworthy feature.

Ending
As the movie proceeds towards its climax, Lambert concerns terms with the symbiotic existence in between the blade and himself by unlocking its real power and using it to strike down the dragon. The seemingly-quiet Lambert surprises everyone by doing the unthinkable yet brave act and saves Altera leading towards a celebratory ending. Nevertheless, the ending takes a fascinating twist, pointing towards a possible sequel when the blade leaves a tip about the Black Dragon's threatening return, leaving audiences excitedly waiting.

Conclusion
"Dragon Nest: Warriors' Dawn" is a perfectly crafted animated movie that prospers on a well-developed fantasy world, adorable characters, and an engaging story. While it tends to appeal more to fans of the original video game due to its in-game referrals, it is available and pleasurable to a larger audience. In spite of its animated nature, it produces universal themes of relationship, bravery, and sacrifice. The movie mesmerizes you with a grandiose setting, engaging story, and visually striking series, making it a must-watch for all animation and dream genre lovers.

Top Cast

  • Carrie-Anne Moss (small)
    Carrie-Anne Moss
    Elena (voice)
  • Lucas Grabeel (small)
    Lucas Grabeel
    Gerrant (voice)
  • Blythe Auffarth (small)
    Blythe Auffarth
    Liya and Kasarana (voice)
  • Charlie Schlatter (small)
    Charlie Schlatter
    Lambert (voice)
  • Simon Orson Jaglom
    Terram (voice)
  • Matthew Temple
    Bat (voice)
  • Ying Huang
    Elena (voice) CN
  • Ye Sun (small)
    Ye Sun
    Gerrant (voice) CN
  • Bianca Collins (small)
    Bianca Collins
    Argenta (voice)
  • Xu Jiao (small)
    Xu Jiao
    voice
  • Ji Guanlin (small)
    Ji Guanlin
    voice