An outstanding sequel that will certainly captures the hearts of many

Rating: 8/10 (8 June 2014)

How to Train Your Dragon is widely regarded as one of the best animated films ever made by Dreamworks Animation. As usual, it's about time that we get another sequel for this box-office hit. The big question is: Will it succeed and turns out better than its predecessor? Well, it's a definite yes, and this film will definitely soar and wins the hearts of many.
The sequel reunites us with the village of Berk and its people, comes with a darker tone and emotional heft this time around, which puts the unusual friendship formed between the lead, Hiccup and his Night Fury dragon, Toothless to the test. It focused more on world building to expand its story, explains the nature and hidden abilities of the dragons, other than plot and character development. Aside from that, Hiccup needs to learn to take responsibility for his Viking clan, as his father, Stoick decides to hand over his position as Chief Of Berk to him. While the film does have its serious moments, it also retains its predecessor's fun action-adventure style with clever witty dialogue as well.
The film is visually appealing, its CGI effects were improved and better this time around. The flying sequences with Hiccup and Toothless, together with the film's score, were spectacular than ever before. Toothless remains adorable and would certainly manage to charm both adults and children alike. The film also introduces new breed of wonderfully coloured dragons, each of them comes with a personality and manage to create an impression to the viewer despite their brief appearance in the film.
The film's emotional moments...notably the arc between Hiccup and his long-lost mother, Valka, as well as the heartwarming reunion between Stoick and Valka after so many years apart from each other were done in a remarkably poignant manner that captures your heart...together with the unexpected, surprising and deeply affecting twist near the climactic third act, this film managed to bring me to tears not once, but twice.
The film loses none of the heart that's previously established by its predecessor. It's simply outstanding on so many levels that it's completely worthy of praise. It's a thrill ride that's both entertaining and moving at the same time. If you love and enjoy the first film, then I guarantee you will love this sequel. It's one of the best animated films of the year.
Rating: 8.5/10 For more reviews: http://yjcool.blogspot.com/2014