The Power of the Dragon-Friend.

Rating: 8/10 (11 May 2020)

It's well established that animated movies seem to mostly be marketed as family movies.
It is almost equally well established that such movies have shown to be just as nuanced, intelligent and mature as much or more than their adult-targeted counterparts.
A lot of movies of this kind sort of let themselves down when by lavatorial humour or an over reliance on pop culture references or desperately trying to be down with the kids (not naming names but I'm sure you can think of one). But this is truly a case of an animated picture that doesn't feel like it was made for kids but just anyone. That you can bring your youngest room mates is just a plus.
A nuanced substantial narrative of self discovery and how those you think are your worse enemies are people you should trust more (and vice versa).
The Norse aesthetic is immersive (if not authentic) and the dragons look super. There is something especially enchanting in trying a more amphibian rather than reptilian look to its main dragon. The developing friendship between boy and beast earns every moment of sentimentality and the danger always feels real (something I always felt Fellowship of the Ring failed to do).
I watched using the Polish dub (because Netfix lets you do that) and felt the voices were excellent The protagonist is very charming as an underdog that manages to win through unorthodox means.
These movies of two sides learning to work together can be very hit and miss. I feel Miyazaki was always a bit heavy handed with them (no offense intended if you're a fan) but this manages to do it just right. As is typically the case with these movies, each character no matter how minor just oozes personality.
And finally, the female lead is handled most pleasingly. I always like these formidable female characters and this one has developed nicely in more ways than one. As much as I adored the Lady Ghostbusters, I think the protagonist here needed to be male just so this dynamic could work believably.
My only criticisms are the use of opening narration and that instant attraction with the tsundere.
But overall: my father has gone on record to have found two animated movies that had genuinely resonated with him: Treasure Planet and the Incredibles. I am inclined to recommend this to him too.