Review of How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014) by Alasdair B — 14 Jun 2015

How To Train Your Dragon was a really great movie. Despite small flaws, I felt it was a great family adventure action film all around. I'd go so far as to say it was almost as good as Toy Story, and very similar in that it's something anyone at any age can enjoy. "How To Train Your Dragon 2'' is the sequel, and is directed by Dean DeBlois. The film stars the voice talents of: Jay Baruchel, Cate Blanchett, Gerard Butler, Craig Ferguson, America Ferrera, Jonah Hill, T.J. Miller, and Kit Harington.

Hiccup (Baruchel) and his dragon Toothless changed their island for the better. Previously, the vikings had hated dragons, but because of Hiccup, they now take care of them, and ride them. Life has changed drastically for them. The dragons have moved in, becoming their pets. One morning after a dragon race, Hiccup and Astrid discover an old fort covered in ice. Dragon trappers are nearby, and they inform them they work for Drago Bludvist. Hiccup's father is alarmed at this news, and orders for the fortification of Berk. Hiccup wants to prevent a war from breaking out, and seeks to find another way to resolve the dilemma.

As I hoped, this sequel delivered the goods. It's hard to top the first film, but they managed to do so. The story and character development is really great. Hiccup has become a really solid character. His journey has taken him from an insecure teen to an adult who wants to find out what his purpose is in life. Similar to the previous movie, it's sequel appeals to all audiences. While kids can relate to Hiccup's journey, adults will be tuning in to the themes of family and parenthood. This film really nails the emotional beats. It's incredibly heartwarming.

Special effects were a large part of why this films predecessor was so great. This time around gets even better. The animation is absolutely dazzling! Each character has more of a personality in their movements. All of the environments look beautiful as well. The action is really thrilling, making it even more impressive. The visuals are overseen by cinematographer, Roger Deakins. The inner computer cinematography was really beautiful.

"How To Train Your Dragon 2'' was a fantastic adventure film from start to finish. The characters are great, the action is visually stunning, and the sentimentality was ever present. I absolutely had a blast with this film. I thought it was really something special. It was the Empire Strikes Back to Star Wars as far as sequels go. Darker, story driven, and fun.