Unmatched by anything else

Rating: 10/10 (4 July 2014)

When DreamWorks first announced a sequel to How to Train your Dragon, I was doubtful to say the least. Too many sequels are cash cows designed to take advantage of loyal fans of the franchise. This is not, I repeat, IS NOT one of them. The studio (which is struggling from several financial catastrophes in the past few months) has undoubtedly struck gold with this. It keeps the same winning formula found in the first film and makes it grander. The soundtrack, for example, is every bit as distinct and moving as the movie's forerunner in John Powell and JÃ³nsi's capable hands, but is more moving, more emotional and more dramatic. That isn't to say Dreamworks doesn't progress the storyline. Everyone ages several years and, without any spoilers, there are huge changes to the dynamic of the story that other franchises would be too afraid to make. At times, it's dark. It's mature. It made this Welshman cry. It's also beautifully crafted; the animation is remarkable, breathtaking and vast. I would be lying if I said it was anything less than the best animated film Dreamworks has ever made. Please see it.