How to Train Your Dragon

 

“This is Berk”

Soaring, faithful and epic, How to Train Your Dragon is a spectacle to behold in a near shot-for-shot live action remake that retains all the heart and fantasy of the original with stunning aerial sequences, John Powell’s iconic score and an emotional story retold for a new generation to enjoy afresh. 

Discussion Points:

Whilst I still think 15 years is far too early to be remaking a film, and I can’t help but think a near shot-for-shot remake does end up with a derivative product, I must admit that I was thoroughly impressed by How to Train Your Dragon. It’s undeniably cool to see some of the iconic animated moments recreated in stunning live action set pieces, particularly the aerial sequences which are just an utter spectacle, especially with John Powell’s score soaring underneath. And given how faithful this adaptation is to the 2010 animated film, it retains so much of what makes that story so beloved. The heart, the humour, the ensemble - all are really well adapted here. Particular shout-out to Mason Thames who is fantastic as Hiccup, whilst Nick Frost is wonderful as Gobber and Gerard Butler reprising his role as Stoick is just perfect icing on the cake. Visually, the film is frequently breathtaking, with the rich Northern Ireland coastline doubling for the island of Berk, and the attention to detail in recreating costumes and locations is commendable and the VFX and dragon designs are very impressive and deeply detailed. There’s a few minor tweaks here and there, a couple new lines, a couple cut lines, and some slight character dynamics that are altered, but nothing that distracts or detracts from the faithfulness of the adaptation. Ultimately, a soaring success and I can’t wait for the sequel.