How To Train Your Dragon (2010) Dir: Dean DeBlois & Chris Sanders
- Ridley Coote
- Apr 12
- 2 min read
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This Dean DeBlois and Chris Sanders directed viking adventure film is one of my favourite animated films of the previous decade. It feels absurd to say that this film is now fifteen years old. I have watched it many times, though it had been a little while, prior to this most recent viewing. It was, as I'm sure is the case with many of you, inspired by the prospect of an upcoming live-action version, which feels incredibly unnecessary.
The film's high-flying fantasy story is accompanied by an epic, uplifting, and spirited soundtrack, which is as memorable as it is enjoyable. It encapsulates so much of the film's themes of discovery, youth, resilience and adventure. It's so well-suited, and so easy to listen to again and again.
I also enjoy the visuals a lot - they've aged pretty well since the film's release back in 2010. The dragon designs are wonderfully creative and vibrant, and the setting looks expansive and believable. Even the character designs for a lot of the vikings look pretty great. Sure, some of the animation is beginning to look a little old, but it really didn't bother me.
The film has a heartwarming and exciting story, which has remained an easily consumable and enjoyable adventure, with so many fun and amusing little moments for all, be they child or adult. It's a story that teaches its viewers that it's okay for someone to be different, and to embrace what makes them different. You can't go too wrong with that.
Jay Baruchel's vocal turn as the film's young lead is terrific, particularly when it came to his comedic chops. His nasally and immature sounding voice was pretty much perfect for the film's misfit protagonist. America Ferrera does an equally marvellous job with her main supporting role, and gives a strong voice to her equally strong character.
Gerard Butler and Craig Furguson are, by some distance, the most enjoyable of those in the other supporting roles. Both have memorable voices, which suit their characters perfectly. Beyond those two, I thought that the likes of Jonah Hill, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, and Kristen Wiig also deserve at least a name drop for their supporting roles.
Overall, this is a timeless and stunning modern family adventure, which is just so much fun to watch every time. I can't understand why, for any reason other than monetary gain, this needs remaking. I digress, this is always worth revisiting, and remains a must-see film for families. I'm so glad that I revisited it, but am very nervous for its live-action remake.
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