A stirring adventure worthy of the extra few bucks to see in IMAX.

Rating: 9/10 (27 March 2010)

Dreamworks may not produce the same 'magical' movies that come from the Mouse House, however when it comes to animated action nobody does it better. Sure Wall-E and Up feature wonderfully emotive images and beautifully heart-warming stories that are ripe for Oscar drool, but they don't have Avatar-esquire, high-flying dragon sequences on display either. Sentiment and heart may ensure longevity but it's these exhilarating set-pieces that'll have you jumping on your seat throughout the film then buzzing with excitement whilst leaving the cinema. The kids will have fun too.
Impressively, writer-directors Dean DeBlois and Chris Sanders have managed to match the action with a well-balanced story that includes plenty of verbal and visual wit. They haven't skimped on the laughs and ensure there's plenty for all ages; the sillier slapstick comedy will keep the younglings happy whilst the written jokes will entertain everyone. There's a message of 'be yourself no matter what' that provides the lynchpin of the tale although gratefully DeBlois and Sanders don't hammer it home excessively, allowing the adrenaline-pumping action and consistent humour to flow freely.
The voice cast – with a few recognisable accents – are solid without being memorable. Baruchel is well-suited to the major role of Hiccup, his awkward tones giving the part another level of amusement. With his deep, stentorian voice, Butler makes a formidable Stoick but unfortunately isn't stretched by the one dimensional character. Of the rest Hill is a highlight as the aggressively dim-witted Snotlout whilst Ferrera gives adroit warrior – and the desire of Hiccup's affections – Astrid a nice balance of tough-as-nails bravado and girl-next-door charm.
A stirring adventure worthy of the extra few bucks to see in IMAX.
4 out of 5 (1 - Rubbish, 2 - Ordinary, 3 - Good, 4 - Excellent, 5 - Classic)