Writer/Director: Dean DeBlois
Co-writer: Cressida Cowell
Starring: Jay Baruchel, Cate Blanchett and Djimon Hounsou
‘A Soaring Sequel’
If there’s any animated film that will fulfill the appetite of both kids and adults in 2014, it’s DreamWorks’ “How to Train Your Dragon 2”. A heartwarming tale about growing up, it is a moving piece of entertainment that kicks off Summer 2014 with a blast. If you’re a child, visuals that are a feast for the eyes will keep you at the edge of your seat. If you’re a grown-up with high expectations, they will be met by an inspirational message. Even if animation films aren’t your cup of tea, the emotional experience offered by “How to Train Your Dragon 2” will sweep you off your feet.
For adults who are dragged into cartoons by their children, this is a pleasant surprise. For the longest of times, animated films have been catered towards kids but kids only. Over the last few years, they have featured ingredients like goofy humor and adorable characters to put a smile on the faces of children all over the world. Yet, this approach has only put older movie-goers to sleep. To put it into simplest terms, animation movies have lacked a meaningful message to truly capture their attention. Surely, there have been exceptions, such the renowned “Toy Story” series or “Wall-E” but only a few in quantity. Without them, it’s been a trend of children being served gourmet meals whereas adults mere appetizers.
Like a superhero to the rescue, “How to Train Your Dragon 2” brings the two audiences together in celebration. If Hiccup and Toothless’ first adventure was purely fun entertainment, this sequel satisfies in the opposite way by being emotionally satisfying. Hiccup, the brave Viking (Jay Baruchel), and his pet dragon Toothless are now faced with a dangerous villain that threatens to tear them apart. Do they have what it takes to defeat the evil dragon-master and restore peace to the land of Berk?
Along a lesson-learning journey, the two encounter many colorful characters; some making a comeback after the last movie while others that are fresh newcomers to their world. Exuberant, memorable and irresistibly charming, each of these characters bring a distinct personality to the table. Whether it’s the silly Gobber who offers laughs every minute or the lovesick Ruffnutt, the cartoon creations are endlessly entertaining to watch. Yet, it’s Hiccup the hero himself, who shines the brightest out of them all. With a confident attitude that paves the way for success, he acts as an inspirational role model for children around the world.
As is the case with most animation movies nowadays, the voice-acting is magnificent. Each actor is at the top of their game, bringing a level of depth to cartoon characters that is jaw-dropping.
With a peaceful voice that calms down the tension, Cate Blanchett is heart-breaking in the role of Hiccup’s long-lost mother. Surprisingly enough, in a film filled with loud and cheerful characters, the standout doesn’t appear until halfway through the movie. Yet, charming and touching in a way that she’s never been before, Blanchett steals your heart as soon as she appears onscreen.
So does an exceptional soundtrack. Only on once-in-a-while occasions, such as with classics like “The Lion King”, does music enhance the quality of animated films. However, “How to Train Your Dragon 2” is an exception; you walk out of it humming the melodic tunes. Particularly memorable is a singing scene that appears out of the blue, proving to be both unexpected and exciting.
If there’s a minor complaint to be had, it’s that the film lacks originality or innovation. With the exception of a few twists and turns, you can guess where it’s heading as soon as it begins.
Nevertheless, “How to Train Your Dragon 2” is still an unforgettable experience: one that will make you laugh, cry and cheer in celebration.
For parents with a bad hiccup struggling to spend time with toothless children that they value, it’s simply a dream come true.
4/5 stars
The Film Buff 
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