In this live-action Disney film set in the early 1900s, a lighthouse keeper’s (Mickey Rooney) daughter (Helen Reddy) befriends a runaway orphan (Sean Marshall) and his playmate, a great green dragon.His name is Elliott. He’s 20 feet high, 40 feet long. He can become invisible at the drop of a hat, or spew red hot flames. In fact, there’s only one way to bring this awesome beast under control… rub his tummy.
Starring Jim Backus, Mickey Rooney, Helen Reddy, Red Buttons, Shelley Winters.
Note: This isn’t exactly the most politically correct of children’s films when it comes to stereotypes, and it also deals with some very serious issues like abuse, in a lighthearted way. Still, many recall this as much-loved childhood movie.