Horst in Translation ([email protected]) "Puff the Magic Dragon" is an animated 23-minute short film from the 1970s. This was made over 35 years ago and actually had quite a decent prospect in terms of the story. Sadly, the execution was not equally convincing, so this little movie, despite an Emmy nomination, is another example of how animated short films were so disappointing in this decade. This could actually have been a great film in terms of emotional impact, but it came short. Nothing to say about the comedy aspect, which was almost non-existent in here anyway. The only somewhat memorable thing in the end was Peter Yarrow's singing. He is a member of the trio "Peter, Paul & Mary" and I quite like their voices. There are 2 sequels to this short movie here, but this first installment did not really get me curious about these. All in all, an underwhelming watch, especially if you look at who made this. One of the directors is even an Oscar winner. Not recommended.

Michael_Elliott Puff the Magic Dragon (1978) ** 1/2 (out of 4) When a shy boy is unable to communicate or reach out to others, he's visited by Puff (voice of Burgess Meredith), the magic dragon who plans on teaching him to be strong. Of all the animated TV-movies from the 70s, this one here certainly isn't among the greatest but there are enough interesting ideas and some charm to make it worth viewing. I think a lot of the appeal can be credited to Meredith who really does a nice job in his role. The vocal performance here is quite good because the actor can bring the fantasy element of the story out but he also brings the dragon to life with ease. Another very strong point is the animation. It certainly isn't "pretty" but it just has a certain atmosphere about it. Just check out the sequence where Puff and the boy are out in a boat when some dark clouds show up to scare the boy. The darkness of the clouds look wonderful but the atmosphere they give off is the major plus. Another good look if Puff himself and especially that crazy hair. The story itself is rather weak and even the 22-minute running time feels a tad bit long in spots but fans of this type of film will still want to check it out.

TheLittleSongbird Directed by Charles Swenson and Fred Wolf, Puff the Magic Dragon was a lovely surprise. True, at 30 minutes it is very short and perhaps rather scant, but all the same it is cute, it is charming and it is intelligent.It is made up of very cute art designs, so the animation is nice and colourful. The songs, principally the truly memorable title song, are beautiful. The cartoon itself is very funny, and has a nice story, and some nice lessons that don't preach. The characters are also very endearing, Puff has to be the most lovable dragon ever, and Jackie isn't annoying at all. And then there's the voice acting, the late Burgess Meredith was perfect as Puff and Phillip Tanzini is appealing as Jackie.All in all, a very nice and gentle watch. 9/10 Bethany Cox

gogogadgetgir73 When I was little, I watched it every time I was sad and afterwards I would be happy. Now that I'm a teenager, I still have the temptation to watch it even though my social status would be wrecked. The animator had a good sense of humor that makes even the toughest goth laugh.. I should know because I'm one of them. If you haven't watched it, you're missing out on funny jokes and cute designs..