SOUND OFF
Sound Off: DWA's Sequel 'How to Train Your Dragon 2' - Thoughts?
by Alex Billington
June 13, 2014
Now that you've seen it, what did you think? Finally, our friends Toothless and Hiccup are back! After a quick four years, DreamWorks Animation returns with How to Train Your Dragon 2, the sequel to the surprise modern classic hit from DWA, How to Train Your Dragon. Jay Baruchel provides the voice for Hiccup, a young Viking who befriends a dragon named Toothless. In this sequel, the Vikings are friends but encounter more foes of dragons as well as some mysterious new friends along the way. Is it better than the first wonderful movie? Could it be that good? Or does it have sequel problems, without as much care as the first one? Once you've seen it, leave a comment with your thoughts on DWA's How to Train Your Dragon 2.
Spoiler Warning: We strongly urge everyone to actually see the film before reading ahead, as there may be spoilers below. We also encourage all commenters to keep major spoilers from the film to a minimum, if possible. However, this is an open discussion from this point on! Beware of spoilers, don't ruin this movie!
To fuel the dragon fire, I really really love this movie, it's beautiful and exceeded all of my expectations. In all truth, I was emotionally affected so much that I almost had tears streaming down my face, there are some truly wonderful moments in this movie involving the people Hiccup meets (not to spoiling anything), and the circumstances he must overcome. What a story. They really want all out and delivered in full. For one of the few times, I feel like DreamWorks Animation has matched Pixar in terms of quality. I love the way it really focuses on the characters and the core, no goofing off, no excessive zany jokes, none of that DreamWorks-y stuff. Even the relationship between Hiccup and Astrid doesn't go off on any wacky paths.
More than anything, I love the themes and the messages it explores. Especially its focus on treating animals, and anything with a soul, with respect and admiration, not just hostility. Additionally, the way it seeks peace as a resolution, and the theme of rising up against the one alpha mindset that controls everyone. It's such a wonderful animated film with so much depth to it. As much as I love all the flying sequences, I love all the bonding sequences and moments where Hiccup continues to grow and learn. This is such an impressive movie for DreamWorks Animation and I am overjoyed that we get to experience it, as this is more of what we need. A movie that teaches everyone good lessons, but also inspires and is beautifully made. Nice work.
What did you think of How to Train Your Dragon 2? Outstanding sequel or a complete mess?
We will remove any comments that indicate you have not seen the movie, as this area is meant to discuss the film only once you have seen it and can talk about your thoughts. Please keep the comments civilized!
14 Comments
1
What a beautiful "to fuel the fire write up".
Xerxexx on Jun 13, 2014
2
Overall I thought it was good. The only thing that bothered me was how flaky the mom was. She acted like a meth addict but addicted to dragons instead.
VoiceOfReason on Jun 13, 2014
3
I didn't read it like that at all. I found her actions and characteristics as someone who has spent the LAST 20 YEARS with dragons. She practically became one. Not addiction but assimilation.
Maxx on Jun 14, 2014
4
This.
Xerxexx on Jun 14, 2014
5
Yeah but a mom ditching her newborn child. (Yes yes she was taken at first, but obviously she got over that) Never coming to visit in 20 years???
VoiceOfReason on Jun 14, 2014
6
That was a choice of the character. Was it the right one? Probably not but it was hers. She even tries to explain herself when she sees Stoick again. There was an evident fear of his judgement and hatred for not coming back. But she wanted to stay and as the years went by, the fear of being hated for that choice kept her from returning. I do get your issue with that "flakiness" though.
Maxx on Jun 14, 2014
7
LOVED it! This is a great film that soars above any other family movies so far this year or any that I see on the horizon (thats you, Annie). Hits a sweet spot by treating its audience (of all ages) with respect and intelligence, There are some dark, moments that may be intense for kids, but I applaud this movie for having the courage to tell a story with real stakes. I hated the huge spoiler in the trailers regarding a key character. I am at a total loss as to why the studio/creators would want to diminish what would have been a much bigger emotional impact.
Movie Bear on Jun 14, 2014
8
Uh....well...I...loved every single second of this delightful follow up. Tops the original in so many ways that I can't even begin to express. Go see this movie now. Was very impressed with the plot and beautiful character development. This is a kids movie right? I felt like I was watching a serious adult film that was just animated.
Xerxexx on Jun 14, 2014
9
Really? It seemed that they gave the whole movie away with the reuniting of the family. I'll take my daughter to see it, but will I still be impressed and surprised?
mooreworthy on Jun 15, 2014
10
I think that you will. They knew what they were doing when they crafted the trailers for the film. Really hope you and your daughter enjoy the film!
Maxx on Jun 15, 2014
11
There is so much more to the film then the Mother reveal...I think you and your daughter will love it.
Xerxexx on Jun 15, 2014
12
Cool, cool, cool.
mooreworthy on Jun 16, 2014
13
Feels...There were some feels in this movie. I really enjoyed it. Probably the first good Dreamworks animated sequel since Shrek 2, in my opinion. I love how Toothless is like a puppy. A feline like puppy. 😀 I recommend this movie.
Chris Amaya on Jun 15, 2014
14
Come on, isn't anyone going to mention that badass weapon Hiccup made? It's the greatest thing since lightsabers.
Gex on Jun 20, 2014
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