One-line Summary:
In “How to Train Your Dragon 2,” directed by Dean DeBlois, Hiccup and Toothless must face a new threat that puts their village and the dragons they love in danger.
Main Cast and Crew:
- Director: Dean DeBlois
- Writer: Dean DeBlois
- Key Actors: Jay Baruchel as Hiccup, Cate Blanchett as Valka, Gerard Butler as Stoick, Craig Ferguson as Gobber
- Music Director: John Powell
- Director of Photography: Roger Deakins
- Producers: Bonnie Arnold, Dean DeBlois
Plot:
Set five years after the events of the first film, “How to Train Your Dragon 2” takes us back to the island of Berk, where Hiccup and his dragon, Toothless, have successfully united the Vikings and dragons. Hiccup, now a young adult, is being groomed by his father, Stoick, to become the next chief of the village.
During one of their explorations, Hiccup and Toothless discover a hidden ice cave that serves as a sanctuary for dragons. There, they encounter Valka, Hiccup’s long-lost mother, who has been living among the dragons for years. Valka reveals that she has been rescuing dragons from Drago Bludvist, a ruthless warlord who plans to conquer Berk and control all dragons.
As Hiccup tries to convince his father and the other villagers to prepare for the impending battle, Drago launches an attack on Berk, using his own army of mind-controlled dragons. Hiccup, along with his friends and family, must rally together to defend their home and save the dragons from Drago’s control.
Throughout the film, Hiccup grapples with his identity and the responsibilities of leadership. He learns to embrace his unique bond with Toothless and discovers the true strength of their friendship. The movie also explores the theme of family, as Hiccup reunites with his mother and learns about her sacrifices and love for him.
Themes and Motifs:
“How to Train Your Dragon 2” explores themes of identity, friendship, and the power of love and sacrifice. It emphasizes the importance of understanding and acceptance, as Hiccup learns to appreciate the dragons’ value and their role in their world. The film also touches on the consequences of war and the need for unity in the face of adversity.
Reception and Legacy:
Upon its release, “How to Train Your Dragon 2” received critical acclaim for its stunning animation, emotional storytelling, and strong character development. It was praised for its ability to appeal to both children and adults, with its mature themes and complex relationships.
The film was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and won the Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature Film. It was also a commercial success, grossing over $600 million worldwide.
“How to Train Your Dragon 2” has had a lasting impact on animation and has become a beloved franchise. It further solidified DreamWorks Animation’s reputation for creating visually stunning and emotionally resonant films.
Recommendation:
“How to Train Your Dragon 2” is a must-watch for fans of the original film and anyone who appreciates beautifully animated storytelling. It offers a compelling continuation of the story, with memorable characters, thrilling action sequences, and heartfelt moments. The film’s exploration of themes such as friendship, family, and self-discovery make it a captivating and enjoyable experience for viewers of all ages.
Memorable Quote:
“There were dragons when I was a boy.”
