Recognizing the significance of representation goes a long way, and Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves surely knows the importance of inclusion – even if it is through a dragon.
In an interview with Screen Rant, producer Jeremy Latcham disclosed that the Wizards of the Coast had a strong preference for a less-plump portrayal of Themberchaud. Despite Latcham’s commitment to maintaining accuracy in the Dungeons & Dragons lore, the Wizards of the Coast adamantly opposed the idea of presenting a chubby Themberchaud, expressing concerns that it would be perceived as “too chunky.” Thankfully, Latcham fought tooth and nail for a chubby dragon.
“They sometimes gave us a hard time about making the dragon too chunky. Which we just kind of said, Trust us, it’s gonna be fun. The fatter he is, the better he is. I promise. You’re gonna like it.”
The producer also highlighted additional points of concern that emerged, including the possibility of Themberchaud being the subject of mockery for his weight, despite being a brutal and ferocious killer.
“It’s not fat shaming. No one is out to fat shame Themberchaud. He is a ferocious guy who’d like to eat a lot of people and other things too. He eats whatever comes his way, but it was a fun line to walk there. We’re not making fun of Themberchaud. We’re scared of him.”
Even if they tried not to poke fun at the chunky dragon, Themberchaud was still the catalyst for several comedic instances in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves. From having trouble flying due to his height to sliding down a mound of bones to eat introducers, the dragon wholeheartedly embodied the principle of working smarter, not harder.
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is currently available on Prime Video.