Surpasses the first

Rating: 9/10 (4 July 2014)

How to Train Your Dragon 2 is a terrific film--visually spectacular, emotional, and thrilling. That animated characters can be so engaging, not least of a which a small dragon who has no dialog, is a tremendous credit to the writers and filmmakers. If you're a fan of animation, this is a must see. If you're a fan of fantasy, it's a must see. If you're a fan of great action films, it's a must see. The first film was also great, but this is the rare sequel that surpasses the original in almost every way. The story is far more emotional and involved, delving into back story that was never even hinted at in the first film. And some of the flight sequences are simply stunning. Then there are just the fascinating visuals beyond the flight scenes. Costumes, interiors, new dragons, even just some of the perspectives that scenes are shot from.
Just go see it. If you're disappointed, then I can't imagine what you were looking for.