How to Train Your Dragon 2
Dir: Dean DeBlois
2014
****
I didn't feel that the brilliant 2010 film How to Train Your Dragon really needed a sequel but I'm very glad it got one. This is a great example of a sequel surpassing its predecessor. Many a sequel will rely on simply copying the formula of the first film and just doubling certain variables. How to Train Your Dragon 2 is bigger, stronger, faster etc but the story is very different and takes a surprisingly serious tone while also keeping the morals, comedy and wonder of the first film. It is obvious that this is a work of passion with studio backing rather than a studio looking to make a quick buck with limited ideas. It is a mature continuation of an original story, is visually impressive and is entertaining throughout. I thought it was great.

How To Train Your Dragon
Dir: Dean DeBlois, Chris Sanders
2010
****
I'm not a huge fan of the Father/Son relationship issues cliche in kids films but that and Vikings with Scottish accents aside, I absolutely loved this Dreamworks animation. The characters are well thought out and the action/comedy doesn't come at the expensive of story or vice-versa. It's a great story too, great for the kids to enjoy but intelligent enough for adults to also watch. The animation is great and the voice cast, apart from the fact some of them are Scottish for no good reason, are also good. This might be Dreamworks at their best, if they keep this standard up then good luck to them, rather this sort of film than Madagascar.