Groundbreaking animation and a great spiritual story.

Rating: 10/10 (26 February 2015)

I loved the first film so much that I shook my head every time I read the scores of positive reviews that this sequel was getting. In no way did I believe that this film was better than the first--that is--until I saw it for myself.
This truly is one of my favorite animated films, right up there with Wall-E and The Incredibles. The animation is light years beyond any of the recent Disney films, including Frozen or Big Hero 6. It was so good that it actually distracted me at times, having to rewind the film over and over to catch all the dialogue that flew past my ears. I really wished I had seen this in the theater.
The story is more mythological than the first...and the script really goes deeply into the Dragon myths. It may be a bit too deep for younger viewers, as the villain's motives may come off as a bit silly for those who are unacquainted with the meaning behind all the spiritual/religious connotations.
But myth aside, the story's heart lies with the characters, and especially the strong bond between Hiccup and Toothless. Never have I seen such a duo on screen with so much love for each other. Another reason why the film works is due to the threatening villain named Drago Bloodfist. He presented a big challenge in this film, and it made for a very dramatic, sad, and happy ending all at once. The best animated film of all time!