Rachel Evans
How to Train Your Dragon is a family-oriented 3D movie based on a children's book series by British author Cressida Cowell. The movie has impressive visuals and is an entertaining ride, especially for children. The Catholic Weekly and Catholic Courier have reviewed the movie, with the former calling it excessively noisy and the latter praising its impressive visuals. The movie has also been perceived as anti-Christian by some, with discussions on Reddit exploring this perspective. Overall, the movie offers a nourishing and uplifting story about an unlikely friendship between a Viking boy and a dragon.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animation, Action, Adventure, Comedy |
| Plot | A Viking boy, Hiccup, forms an unlikely friendship with a dragon, Toothless, and tries to foster harmony between Vikings and dragons |
| Rating | A-II — adults and adolescents |
| Visuals | Sumptuous, impressive, realistic |
| Story | Scant, formulaic |
| Themes | Altruism, Christianity, domestication of dragons |
| Tone | Melancholy |
| Target Audience | Not suitable for timid tots and young children |
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What You'll Learn
The film's depiction of dragons and their domestication
The "How to Train Your Dragon" film series, based on the books by Cressida Cowell, centres on the friendship between Hiccup, a Viking boy, and Toothless, a dragon. The films depict a world in which dragons and Vikings coexist, and the relationship between the two species is a central theme.
In the first film, Hiccup is faced with the expectation that he must kill a dragon to prove his worth as a Viking. However, when he encounters a dragon, he finds himself unable to do so and instead forms an unlikely bond with the creature, whom he names Toothless. This friendship becomes the foundation for a new understanding between the Vikings and dragons, as Hiccup works to foster harmony between the two groups.
The depiction of dragons in the films is a mix of fantasy and realism. While the dragons possess magical abilities, such as flying and breathing fire, they are also portrayed as intelligent and emotional creatures with distinct personalities. Toothless, in particular, is known for his cat-like grin and playful personality, which has made him a fan favourite among audiences. The film also features other dragons, such as the fire-covered Monstrous Nightmare, each with its own unique design and characteristics.
The domestication of dragons is a central theme in the "How to Train Your Dragon" series. Hiccup's friendship with Toothless challenges the traditional belief that dragons are dangerous creatures that must be tamed or conquered. Instead, Hiccup approaches Toothless with compassion and respect, and their relationship is based on mutual trust and understanding. This idea of domestication is further explored in the sequels, where Hiccup and Toothless work together to protect their respective communities from common enemies.
The films also address the ethical implications of dragon domestication. Some viewers have expressed discomfort with the idea of dragons being kept as pets or servants, suggesting that it implies a degree of servitude that may be unethical. However, the films also present a nuanced view of this relationship, as Hiccup and Toothless are shown to have a deep bond that goes beyond simple master-pet dynamics. Their friendship is portrayed as a partnership, with both characters learning from each other and working together to overcome challenges.
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Hiccup's self-actualization and its impact on society
In the "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise, Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III undergoes a significant transformation, not just in age but also in terms of self-actualization, which has a profound impact on his society.
Hiccup, the protagonist of the franchise, is a Viking teenager from the Island of Berk in the icy North Atlantic. Unlike his peers and fellow Vikings, Hiccup is not focused on killing dragons. Instead, he apprentices for the blacksmith Gobber, and his pacifist leanings cause distress to his father, Stoick the Vast, the Viking leader. Hiccup's journey towards self-actualization begins when he encounters a rare "Night Fury" dragon in the forest. Unable to harm the wounded creature, he instead befriends and tames it, naming the dragon "Toothless." This pivotal moment marks the start of Hiccup's evolution from a scrawny apprentice blacksmith to a brave leader and dragon trainer.
Hiccup's self-actualization challenges the belligerent premise of his society, where the primary goal of male Vikings is to slay dragons. By befriending Toothless, Hiccup discovers that dragons have been misunderstood and that harmony between Vikings and dragons is possible. He harnesses his engineering and animal-training skills to foster this harmony, ultimately disarming societal expectations and impressing his peers, including Astrid, who becomes his romantic partner.
The impact of Hiccup's self-actualization extends beyond his personal relationships. He becomes a "dragon whisperer," using his unique abilities to bring about positive change in his society. For example, after vanquishing a common enemy, a Godzilla-like monster, Hiccup helps to integrate dragons into Viking society, with his dragon-riding skills becoming a vital asset. Hiccup's willingness to forge alliances, as seen in his interactions with Queen Mala, also contributes to his leadership capabilities.
Hiccup's self-actualization has a profound impact on his personal growth and societal standing. By embracing his true nature, he transforms from an outcast into a respected leader. Hiccup's journey sends a powerful message to viewers about embracing one's true self, challenging societal norms, and bringing about positive change. His evolution from a teenager to a leader reflects the power of self-discovery and its potential to shape not only one's life but also the society they inhabit.
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The intense fantasy action and violent descriptions
The third instalment of the "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise features intense fantasy action and violent descriptions that may be disturbing for younger viewers. The film depicts epic battle sequences between the dragons and the villainous Grimmel and his dragon hunters. These scenes are filled with dramatic music and sound effects, enhancing the sense of danger and excitement.
One of the most intense moments occurs when
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The Christian values and lessons in altruism
The "How to Train Your Dragon" trilogy, based on the books by Cressida Cowell, has been adapted into a series of live-action films, with the latest instalment released in 2025. The films centre around Hiccup, a Viking boy who becomes friends with a dragon, Toothless, and works to foster harmony between Vikings and dragons.
The films have been praised for their impressive visuals and animation, as well as their uplifting message about taming evil and turning enemies into friends. While the films have been deemed entertaining, some have criticised them for being formulaic and noisy, with wooden dialogue.
The ultimate lesson in altruism in the third film has been described as melancholy, but in keeping with Christian values and perspectives. This message revolves around the idea that evil can be tamed and that enemies can become friends. Hiccup's journey in the films demonstrates the power of self-actualisation and disarming harmful societal premises. Additionally, the consequences of violence are portrayed, even when the cause is just.
The film's portrayal of dragons as misunderstood creatures that can be domesticated may make some viewers uneasy, particularly those with animal rights concerns. However, the film's message of harmony and peace between Vikings and dragons offers a constructive and positive perspective.
Overall, while "How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World" has been criticised for its formulaic plot and intense conflict scenes, its Christian values and lessons in altruism have been noted as reassuring and uplifting. The film's message of taming evil and fostering friendship, as demonstrated by Hiccup and Toothless's relationship, aligns with a Christian perspective on turning enemies into friends.
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The impressive visuals and animation
The visuals and animation in "How to Train Your Dragon" are impressive and have been praised by viewers and critics alike. The film is a live-action adaptation of the beloved 2010 animated movie of the same name, and the visuals are said to be driving force behind the project. The animation is described as "terrific", with impressive visuals that make the film a must-watch in theatres.
The CGI is particularly noteworthy, with each dragon, from Toothless to the fire-covered Monstrous Nightmare, looking incredibly realistic and faithful to the animated designs. The landscapes and Viking settings are also visually stunning, described as "rich, immersive, and cinematic". The flying scenes, in particular, are very fantastic and breathtaking, with Toothless soaring through clouds and over craggy cliffs.
The animation also adds emotional depth to the film, with scenes like the sand drawing, flight training, and the romantic flight evoking strong feelings from viewers. The music, composed by John Powell, also hits hard emotionally and complements the visuals perfectly.
The attention to detail in the animation is impressive, with even small details like Toothless' slight hesitation in the 2010 film being included. The animators decided to keep this glitch in the software because they felt it fit the timing perfectly. This level of care and attention to detail elevates the film and makes it a stunning visual experience.
Overall, the impressive visuals and animation of "How to Train Your Dragon" are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the filmmakers. The film is a feast for the eyes and a stunning example of the power of animation to bring stories to life.
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Frequently asked questions
The film is rated PG, suggesting that it may be suitable for children with parental guidance. However, parents of impressionable children should note that the film contains several scenes of conflict and battle, as well as references to Norse gods.
The film contains various Christian themes and morals, including selflessness, loyalty, teamwork, the importance of community and family, and understanding others. The main character, Hiccup, has been compared to a Christ figure, as he is rejected by his people and stands up for what he believes in, even when it goes against the moral code of his society.
The film follows a young, socially isolated Viking boy called Hiccup, who yearns to elevate his lowly status among his peers. He gets his chance when he downs a Night Fury dragon, one of the most dangerous and elusive of dragonkind. However, when it comes to finishing off the creature, he finds himself unable to do so and instead gradually befriends the dragon, whom he names Toothless.
One review from a Catholic perspective notes that while the film is entertaining, the story is lacking. The visuals are described as sumptuous, but the dialogue is criticised as being wooden and self-satisfied. Another review from a Catholic source notes that the film contains positive messages and life lessons that align with Christian ideals.
