Review: How to Train Your Dragon

There is something special about the new 3-D flick by Dreamworks, How to Train Your Dragon. The adventure comedy set in the mythical world of Vikings and fire-breathing dragons focuses on a Viking teen named Hiccup.

Jay Baruchel provides the voice of this scrawny teen who doesn’t quite have the skills to kill the dragon. Although he’s in dragon training constantly with other Viking teens played by America Ferrera and Jonah Hill, he seems to fall short of being a fighter, the ultimate macho competitor. Even, Gerard Butler, who lends his voice to Hiccup’s father, cannot help the young teen master the art of dragon slaying.

As the story continues we find that Hiccup befriends a dragon who’s injured. And as he names him Toothless, the sweet story is ultimately one of friendship, valor, and changing the tide of the tribe. I found it interesting that it’s based on a book by Cressida Cowell because the animation, music and acting were superb. As I watched the movie in Times Square, in the heart of New York City, there’s something special about this movie which tugs at your heartstrings.

Plus, watching How to Train Your Dragon with children was a real treat as the audience chuckled throughout and also was in awe (in an ooh and ahh) as Hiccup does the unthinkable and befriends a beastly dragon.

The filmmakers did an exemplary job of researching the Viking culture and telling a story about how the relationship between Hiccup and Toothless changed his world. How to Train Your Dragon also encompassed the larger picture of society at large including friendships and ultimately the need for each person to march to the beat of their own drum — even when it’s not what your proud papa originally intended.

If you see this movie, trust us, you won’t be disappointed. It’s a delight for the whole family! What’s not to love?