How to Train Your Dragon 2

Time for honesty: I didn't see the original How to Train Dragon when it came out back in 2010. I didn't see it even though I was told again and again how awesome it was. I didn't even think about seeing it until I saw there was a sequel coming out and the first review I read said the sequel was to the original what The Empire Strikes Back was to Return of the Jedi. After watching it I quickly realized it is one of the greatest, original animated movie of all time. So does the sequel measure up? In a word.....



It's five years after the Vikings who live in Berk made peace with the dragons. The tribes Chieftain Stoick wants his son Hiccup to start training to take his place as leader of the people. It's a job Hiccup wants no part of even though his now girlfriend Astrid tells him what an honor it is. Hiccup is more interested in exploring the unknown lands that can now be found with the help of dragons. But some unknown lands secrets should never be uncovered and on this adventure Hiccup will discover a battle raging between good and evil. A battle that strikes close to home. A battle that will force him to chose between being the man he wants to be or the leader he was born to be.

....YES! This is an incredible sequel. It is bigger, badder, and better. The stakes are higher, the dragons cooler, and the relationships that were discovered in the first installment are tested and strengthened. This franchise has the potential to be one of the greatest fantasy franchises ever. Period. The characters are realistic, developed, and people you can relate to. The first story was a story of a boy learning to grow up, this is a story of a boy who became a man and now has to face the responsibilities of manhood. As far as I can see, there are no hiccups in this story.    A+