The How to Train Your Dragon film series, produced by DreamWorks Animation, consists of three core animated feature films: How to Train Your Dragon (2010), How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014), and How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (2019). These films chronicle the coming-of-age story of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, a Viking teen who befriends a fearsome dragon named Toothless, ultimately changing the relationship between Vikings and dragons forever.
The Core Trilogy: A Deep Dive
The How to Train Your Dragon movies offer a rich tapestry of adventure, emotion, and stunning animation. Each film builds upon the previous, expanding the world and deepening the characters. To truly understand the series, it’s crucial to examine each installment in detail.
How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
This initial film sets the stage. We meet Hiccup, a clumsy and unconventional Viking living on the island of Berk, a community constantly besieged by dragon raids. Hiccup’s efforts to prove himself as a dragon slayer are thwarted when he accidentally shoots down a Night Fury, the most feared and mysterious of all dragons. Instead of killing it, he frees it from his contraption and starts a friendship with it, eventually naming it Toothless. Through their interactions, Hiccup discovers the truth about dragons and their motivations, ultimately leading him to find a way to make peace with the dragons. The film culminates in a climactic battle against the Red Death, a massive and terrifying dragon that forces the other dragons to steal food for it. Hiccup and Toothless defeat the Red Death, but Hiccup loses a leg in the process, symbolizing the permanent change he has brought to Berk.
How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)
Five years later, Berk has become a dragon-riding paradise. Hiccup, now 20, is exploring the world with Toothless when they stumble upon a group of dragon hunters led by Drago Bludvist, a ruthless warlord who controls dragons through force. They also encounter Hiccup’s long-lost mother, Valka, who has dedicated her life to protecting dragons in a hidden sanctuary. This film delves into darker themes of war and loss, as Drago uses a Bewilderbeast, a colossal alpha dragon, to control and brainwash other dragons, including Toothless. Tragically, Stoick the Vast, Hiccup’s father, is killed protecting Hiccup from a brainwashed Toothless. The film ends with Hiccup, now Chief of Berk, leading his people and dragons against Drago, finally breaking Drago’s control over Toothless.
How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (2019)
This final chapter focuses on the evolving relationship between humans and dragons. As Berk becomes overpopulated with dragons, Hiccup realizes that they need a safe haven, a “Hidden World,” as described in Viking legends. Meanwhile, a ruthless dragon hunter named Grimmel the Grisly threatens Toothless, as Grimmel is determined to kill all Night Furies. As Toothless discovers a Light Fury, a female dragon of the same species, Hiccup realizes that the dragons need to return to their own kind in the Hidden World, where they will be safe from human threats. The film concludes with Hiccup and Toothless saying goodbye, acknowledging that their paths must diverge to protect their respective species. The ending is bittersweet, showcasing the sacrifices necessary for peace and understanding. The film includes a time jump, showing Hiccup and Astrid with their own children years later, reuniting with Toothless and the Light Fury, who now have offspring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the How to Train Your Dragon franchise.
FAQ 1: Are the How to Train Your Dragon movies based on books?
Yes, the movies are based on the How to Train Your Dragon book series by Cressida Cowell. However, the films deviate significantly from the books’ plot and characters. While the core concept of a Viking boy befriending a dragon remains the same, the specific storylines and character dynamics are quite different. The books are aimed at a younger audience and feature a much more humorous and lighthearted tone.
FAQ 2: What makes How to Train Your Dragon so popular?
Several factors contribute to the series’ popularity. Firstly, the visually stunning animation creates a breathtaking world and believable characters. Secondly, the emotional depth and relatable themes of friendship, acceptance, loss, and coming-of-age resonate with audiences of all ages. The complex characters and their development throughout the series also add to the franchise’s appeal. Finally, the unique and imaginative dragon designs contribute to the series’ distinct identity.
FAQ 3: What is the correct order to watch the How to Train Your Dragon movies?
The correct order to watch the core movies is:
- How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
- How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)
- How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (2019)
While there are other short films and television series within the franchise, watching the main trilogy in order is essential for understanding the overarching narrative.
FAQ 4: Are there any How to Train Your Dragon TV series?
Yes, there are several How to Train Your Dragon television series, including:
- Dragons: Riders of Berk (and its subsequent seasons, Defenders of Berk and Race to the Edge)
- Dragons: Rescue Riders (aimed at a younger audience)
- How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming (a short holiday special)
- Dragons: The Nine Realms (set centuries after the films)
These series expand upon the world and characters of the films, exploring different storylines and dragon species. Riders of Berk and its sequel are considered canon and bridge the gap between the first and second films.
FAQ 5: What is the significance of Toothless being a Night Fury?
Night Furies are portrayed as the rarest and most intelligent of all dragon species. Toothless’s unique abilities and personality make him a crucial part of Hiccup’s journey and the peace between Vikings and dragons. His vulnerability and intelligence allow Hiccup to connect with him on a deeper level, challenging the preconceived notions about dragons held by the Vikings. His species also drives the plot of the third movie, where he must reunite with other dragons of his kind.
FAQ 6: What is the Hidden World?
The Hidden World is a vast, bioluminescent underground realm where dragons originated. It serves as a safe haven for dragons, protecting them from human threats. It’s the ultimate destination for the dragons of Berk in the third film, representing a return to their natural habitat and a separation from the human world. It also signifies the final stage of Hiccup’s journey towards maturity and accepting the responsibility of leadership.
FAQ 7: Who is Drago Bludvist?
Drago Bludvist is the main antagonist of How to Train Your Dragon 2. He is a ruthless warlord who uses fear and force to control dragons. He represents the opposite of Hiccup’s approach to dragons, embodying the old Viking mentality of dominance and control. His backstory reveals a history of dragon attacks and a personal vendetta against dragons. He uses the bewilderbeast to control dragons, acting as the films most ruthless villain.
FAQ 8: What is the relationship between Hiccup and Astrid?
Hiccup and Astrid share a close and supportive relationship throughout the series. Initially, Astrid is skeptical of Hiccup’s friendship with Toothless, but she eventually comes to accept and support his beliefs. Their relationship evolves from a friendly rivalry to a deep and loving partnership. Astrid acts as Hiccup’s confidante and advisor, providing him with strength and encouragement, eventually marrying him.
FAQ 9: Why did Hiccup and Toothless have to separate at the end of The Hidden World?
The separation of Hiccup and Toothless is a poignant but necessary part of the story. As humans and dragons coexist, the constant threats of dragon hunters endanger the dragons’ survival. By sending the dragons to the Hidden World, Hiccup ensures their safety and allows them to live in peace. This separation also forces Hiccup to accept his responsibilities as a leader and allow Toothless to embrace his role as an alpha dragon.
FAQ 10: What is the significance of Stoick’s death in How to Train Your Dragon 2?
Stoick’s death is a pivotal moment in the series. It forces Hiccup to confront the reality of war and the consequences of his choices. It also highlights the sacrifices that are necessary for peace. Stoick’s death propels Hiccup to become the Chief of Berk and take on the responsibility of protecting his people and the dragons.
FAQ 11: Are there any plans for more How to Train Your Dragon movies?
While there are currently no confirmed plans for additional How to Train Your Dragon feature films, the franchise remains popular, and the possibility of future installments remains open. The ending of The Hidden World provides closure to the main storyline, but the world of dragons and Vikings offers ample opportunities for exploration in future projects. DreamWorks Animation has explored spin-offs so future releases are not impossible.
FAQ 12: Where can I watch How to Train Your Dragon movies?
The How to Train Your Dragon movies are available for streaming on various platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, and Peacock, depending on your region. They can also be rented or purchased digitally on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, and Apple TV. Physical copies of the films on Blu-ray and DVD are also readily available. Always check availability on specific platforms in your region.