Released in 2014, How to Train Your Dragon 2 quickly became a landmark in animated cinema, delighting audiences and critics alike. As the second installment in DreamWorks’ franchise, it continued the story of Hiccup and his dragon companion, Toothless, in a world where dragons and humans coexist. But how does it rank in comparison to its predecessor and other animated films? In this article, we’ll explore the rankings, opinions, and overall impact of How to Train Your Dragon 2 from various perspectives, including critics, box office results, and fan reactions.
Critical Reception and Rankings
How to Train Your Dragon 2 was met with widespread acclaim from critics. According to Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an impressive approval rating of around 92%, which is even higher than the first film’s score of 98%. While both films were praised for their animation, heartwarming storylines, and character development, the sequel received particular attention for its darker themes, more complex characters, and stunning visual effects.
The movie earned a 76/100 on Metacritic, a slight dip from its predecessor’s 86/100 but still a solid score that signifies general approval from critics. Many saw the film as a significant step forward in terms of narrative complexity. While the first movie focused on the relationship between Hiccup and Toothless, How to Train Your Dragon 2 introduced new emotional depth with Hiccup discovering his long-lost mother, Valka, and confronting the villainous Drago Bludvist. These emotional stakes added a layer of maturity to the film that resonated with both young and adult audiences.
Box Office Performance
Financially, How to Train Your Dragon 2 also performed admirably, grossing over $621 million globally on a budget of $145 million. While it didn’t reach the same level of commercial success as the first movie, it still cemented its place as one of the highest-grossing animated films of 2014. Its performance showed that animated sequels could maintain box office success without sacrificing creativity or emotional depth.
Audience Reception and Opinions
Audience reactions to How to Train Your Dragon 2 have generally mirrored critical reviews, with many praising its emotional depth and stunning animation. Fans particularly appreciated the development of Hiccup as a leader, and the exploration of his relationship with Toothless. The film delved deeper into the themes of responsibility and leadership, which resonated with both younger viewers and adults. Many viewers appreciated the risk DreamWorks took by introducing darker, more mature themes compared to the first film.
One of the standout features for fans was the evolution of Toothless. The dragon's connection with Hiccup deepens, but Toothless himself is given more character growth as he faces challenges of his own. Fans were thrilled by the “alpha dragon” storyline and the ultimate realization of Toothless’ potential, which added new layers of meaning to their friendship. In fact, many viewers cite their bond as the emotional core of the film, which stands out even more in the face of the new threats posed by Drago Bludvist.
Comparisons to Other Animated Sequels
When comparing How to Train Your Dragon 2 to other animated sequels, it stands out for its maturity and depth. Many animated sequels fall into the trap of rehashing the original film's success without pushing boundaries. However, DreamWorks’ decision to make the stakes higher and introduce complex emotional arcs gave How to Train Your Dragon 2 a distinct identity in the crowded world of animated sequels.
In comparison to Pixar’s sequels like Finding Dory and Cars 2, DreamWorks’ sequel is often considered more daring. While Pixar’s films are known for their universal appeal and emotional depth, How to Train Your Dragon 2 goes further in its exploration of grief, leadership, and the consequences of war. Critics have even compared its emotional impact to some of the more revered animated features such as The Lion King and Up.
The Final Word: Legacy and Influence
Despite not being as financially successful as its predecessor, How to Train Your Dragon 2 solidified its place in animated film history. It raised the bar for animated sequels, proving that these films can be more than just cash grabsthey can be complex, heartfelt, and artistically ambitious. Its legacy is still felt today, as the final chapter in the How to Train Your Dragon trilogy was released in 2019 to further critical and fan acclaim.
The film has left an indelible mark on the animation industry and continues to be celebrated by fans who appreciate its breathtaking visuals, emotional depth, and engaging storytelling. While it might not have had the same commercial success as other animated sequels, it remains a standout in the genre, demonstrating the power of animation to tackle serious, life-changing themes in a way that is both accessible and meaningful to audiences of all ages.
Fan Opinions: A More Personal Look at the Sequel
Over the years, How to Train Your Dragon 2 has sparked numerous fan discussions on forums and social media, with many fans sharing their personal connections to the movie. For some, the relationship between Hiccup and his mother, Valka, struck a deeply emotional chord. Others appreciated the exploration of themes like leadership, trust, and sacrifice, which provided opportunities for reflection on their own lives.
Fan art, fan fiction, and cosplay surrounding the movie are abundant, showcasing the lasting impact the film had on its audience. Many fans still argue about which is better: the original movie or the sequel. While some feel that the first movie was a perfect setup, others contend that the second film took the story to greater emotional heights. The dynamic between the characters is a frequent point of discussion, with many fans expressing how they feel invested in the personal journeys of Hiccup, Toothless, and their supporting cast.
One of the key elements that fans continue to celebrate is the film’s pacing. Unlike many sequels, which can feel rushed or overloaded with unnecessary plot points, How to Train Your Dragon 2 is carefully structured, allowing each character to develop and allowing the emotional beats to land effectively. This makes the movie feel like a natural continuation of the story, rather than just another adventure that lacks the charm of the original.
Fans also point to the incredible animation as one of the key reasons the film remains so highly regarded. The flight sequences, in particular, are breathtaking. The aerial battles, especially those featuring Toothless, are some of the most stunning moments in animated cinema. The CGI in the film is so immersive that it brings the world of dragons to life in a way few other animated films have been able to achieve.
Conclusion
How to Train Your Dragon 2 may not have surpassed its predecessor in terms of box office earnings, but its legacy as a critical and fan favorite continues to thrive. With its mature storytelling, strong character development, and stunning animation, it stands out as one of the most influential animated films of the 21st century. Its exploration of leadership, loss, and trust makes it not only a great animated film but also a powerful story that resonates with audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of animated movies or simply someone who enjoys a well-told story, this film remains a must-see.
meta_title: How to Train Your Dragon 2 Rankings and Opinions | Movie Analysis
meta_description: Explore rankings, opinions, and fan reactions to How to Train Your Dragon 2. A deep dive into its success, emotional depth, and impact in animation.
sapo: How to Train Your Dragon 2 ranks as one of the best animated sequels, praised for its emotional depth, stunning visuals, and complex themes. Dive into the opinions and rankings surrounding this cinematic gem.
keywords: How to Train Your Dragon 2, animated movie sequel, Hiccup and Toothless, DreamWorks, best animated films, movie rankings, film analysis