Turkish Delight

Rating: 6/10 (6 July 2014)

The metaphorical reasoning behind this chosen title is due to this item being the best way to describe the film: magnificent to look at, scrumptious at first taste, however a repetitive notion once you reach the juicy center is difficult to ignore, and you can't help but struggle to overcome the omnipresent sense of familiarity.
Starting with the perks, this picture has many - most notably the stunning visual effects; right from the opening sequence the movie draws you in, instantly capturing your attention and maintaining it through a spellbinding display of flawless animation. There's simply so much to look at, that a dazzling score to accompany the wonderful flying sequences would (and in parts does) provide non-stop entertainment for a substantial duration of time.
However a wisely selected soundtrack overlaying fantastic visual art is only part of the battle, with the primary drawback of HTTYD2 providing an explanation as to why Pixar are considered the masters of animation as opposed to Dreamworks. Pixar understands that story is key. They understand that likable characters engaging in interesting dialogue catering to both children and adults alike is essential in the process of achieving something special. HTTYD offered a step in the right direction, however the sequel offers little progression in an already limited story line, and the overly child-friendly scripting only makes the characters feel washed up and overused.
Judged on its own, this picture is an entertaining one-time watch. However when the inevitable comparison with better films of a similar genre does happen, it'll be forgotten before you can say toothless.