HTTYD 2 - A sequel worthy of its predecessor

Rating: 9/10 (1 July 2014)

HTTYD is one of my all time favourite films, so I was both excited and nervous for its sequel. I was looking forward to it, but hoping that it didn't crash and burn like the Shrek series after the 2nd one. I had no reason to fret, as this gem did not disappoint.
Set five years after its predecessor, Hiccup, now 20, is due to become chief of his tribe on the island of Berk. His father Stoic, thinks he's fit for the job, but Hiccup isn't so sure. His troubles only double when he finds out that a dragon trapper, Drago Bloodvist, is building a dragon army for purely evil purposes. In the meantime, Hiccup and Stoic reunite with Valka, the latter's wife and Hiccup's mother, who had been snatched by dragons 20 years before, and, like her son, felt at home amongst the beasts. Hiccup believes that he can talk sense into Drago, but his parents warn him that he is a madman, and that they must protect their people - such men cannot be reasoned with. Like his father in ways, Hiccup ignores them, which leads to a tragic event that will change him forever.
I recently read a quote by a critic, which stated that the first HTTYD was about a boy finding his best friend, and that the second was about the same boy becoming a man. He/she could not have said it better. HTTYD 2 is much darker and mature than its sister movie, with bigger problems (and bigger dragons!) and an even bigger message. The moral is very Lion King esque, to face one's responsibilities. There is also the important lessons of forgiveness, loyalty and friendship - and listening to your elders! The bond between Hiccup and Toothless has only grown stronger over the five year gap, and it's evident, and portrayed beautifully. Hiccup's older design, as well as the subtle changes in Toothless's features, add maturity without taking away from their younger selves. Hiccup and Astrid share great chemistry, and have lovely moments together. Valka and Hiccup connect immediately, and the love that she and Stoic share after all the years apart is a joy to behold. There is a great father and son bond that seems to have grown stronger, but rather than Stoic learning from Hiccup, Hiccup is learning from Stoic.
The emotions run high in this film, and there are certainly some heartwrenching scenes. HTTYD 2 is more for the teenagers who saw the original, now adults. However, it is, like The Lion King, a fantastic family film that teaches important lessons, as mentioned above, and brings back the same characters we fell for before, with exciting, high flying adventures.
(the animation is even better than the original, and the music just as beautiful).
A worthy continuation of what is possibly DWA's best series.