Overview
The second part of the renowned animated trilogy by DreamWorks Animation, How to Train Your Dragon 2, picks up 5 years after the first film, continuing the adventures of Hiccup and his devoted dragon friend, Toothless, as they explore new continents, encounter long-lost relatives, and adjust to new roles and obligations.
The tale opens up in the tranquil Viking outpost of Berk, where the humans and dragons coexist in peace. The island and and it’s once fierce villagers, are now colorful and vividly decorated by friendly dragons, alive with the glee of dragon races. The villagers have long given up their primitive ways and have embraced the dragons as companions.
Most dragons and their riders, including Hiccup who is now all grown up, spend their endless hours wandering the skies of unknown territories while meticulously recording their newest discoveries in map form and crafting apparatus. Despite the praise he receives from Berk, he is unsure about taking over his father’s Stoick the Vast who is the chief of Berk and expects Hiccup to take over the responsibilities. Hiccup himself desires more to explore new territories rather than take over and lead the people.
Hiccup and Toothless’s next expedition takes them to a rendezvous with some dragon trappers, agents of a nefarious character named Drago. These trappers are out netting dragons to send to Drago and his expanding fortress. Drago’s plans intrigue Hiccup, and to speak with Drago, Hiccup hopes to restore order, but his father cautions him that not every dispute can be negotiated.
Continuing his exploration, he discovers a hidden dragons’ sanctuary, buried in ice. It is populated with every kind of dragon and guarded by a talented, enigmatic dragon rider who, to Hiccup’s shock, is his mother, named, Valka. She had been thought lost but had devoted many years to saving and learning how to live in harmony with dragons. She had been living, in the company of dragons.
Hiccup being exposed to this wonderful moment helps to rejuvenate old historic memories of Valka and the unbounded love she possessed for her village, which consisted of both parents. He is now reminded of the love and the kindness Valka had for the village and for him as she strengthened him with her courageous character.
During this time, Stoick was in Berk working with the villagers to prepare for the impending threat with Drago. Their tranquil world with dragons was in danger, and Stoick was aware of the need to defend it. Throughout the story, the characters need to make tough decisions which push the boundaries of both their courage and their hearts.
Ultimately, both Hiccup and Toothless and meet this challenge head on. Hiccup, alongside his mother, friends and the villagers, was able to embrace his new leadership role. It was in this moment that Hiccup understood that leadership was not solely about power, but about love, belief, and the will to fight for the truth.
Cast and Crew
Director and Writer : Dean Deblois
Produced By : Bonnie Arnold
Music : John Powll with additional and special music contributions from Jonsi.
Studio : DreamWorks Animation
Voice Actors:
Jay Baruchel as Hiccup – The dragon rider with kindness and curiosity that is just starting to lead.
America Ferrera as Astrid – The friend of Hiccup that is both supportive and courageous.
Cate Blanchett as Valka – The protective mother of Hiccup that was lost for a long time and protects dragons.
Gerard Butler as Stoick – The Chief of Berk that is tough, but gentle.
Djimon Hounsou as Drago – The enigmatic character that plans to seize dragons.
Voice of Eret, a dragon tracker with new methods is Kit Harington. Craig Ferguson is the Gobber – a Blacksmith and Stoick’s best mate. Young dragon riders of Berk are portrayed by Kristen Wiig, T.J. Miller, Jonah Hill and Christopher Mintz-Plasse.
IMDb Ratings: 7.8 / 10.
How to Train Your Dragon 2 was the second part of a major hit series and like the first, was well received by audiences and reviewers alike. Recognized as a masterclass of animation with a complex and multifaceted narrative, as well as a deeply thought-provoking work, it was the consensus that the sequel did more than just follow the themes of the previous story. It offered a new perspective and renewed richness to the films themes and characters.
Emotion is perhaps the most powerfully showcased component of the film. Hiccup transforms from a naive child to a man who understands the essence of family, community and leadership. Each of the lessons – responsibility, forgiveness and locating one’s place is set in the world, offer immensely valuable life teachings.
John Powell’s musical score, complemented by tracks from Jónsi, lends emotional depth to and embellishes the film. The songwriting captures the feeling of flight, the connection between Hiccup and Toothless, and between perception and the emotional development of the characters.
How to Train Your Dragon 2 received several important nominations and won the Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature. It won the hearts of audiences young and old for its received accolades for its creative and thoughtful continuations to the narrative.
Conclusion
How to Train Your Dragon 2 is far more than just a new animated escapade. This film is about growing up and finding one’s self, and learning to take care of others. It is a closer look at the bond between Hiccup and Toothless which the films concerns with is the trust, affection and bravery to face alteration.
Complementing support from Astrid and friends, his friends alongside Hiccup’s mother bond greatly reinforces the leader Hiccup is destined to become. The bond kindness and understanding is the true source of strength is a point emphasized most throughout the film.
Weaving breathtaking visuals with gripping emotional depth, the film speaks to audiences of all ages. Among the sea of animated films, it’s the incredible story, the beautifully crafted score, and the engaging characters that set it apart. How to Train Your Dragon 2 is the second installment of the franchise, and it sure delivers. You do not simply watch it for the action of flying dragons, the affectionate family relationships, or the sheer pleasure of a good story. You remember it, and it resonates deeply with you.
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