HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON REINVENTED
Review of How To Train Your Dragon Film: A Sentimental Movie, Yet Loses Some Spark on Repeat Viewing
A breath-taking reinvention of How To Train Your Dragon embraces emotion and action in equal measure.
Though it stays loyal to the 2010 animated adaptation of Cressida Cowell's books, its clingy attachment to the source material robs it of the freshness that a new take on this beloved tale could offer.
Dean DeBlois — director, composer John Powell, and Gerard Butler who essays Stoick in person — all show their unwavering dedication to the original story. Yet, this devotion stunts the movie's ability to venture into uncharted territory.
The plot remains the same, depicting Hiccup (Mason Thames), a Viking with brains over brawn, growing up on the rugged island of Berk. His unique friendship with an injured dragon takes center stage, inspiring this heartwarming story and bringing upheaval for Hiccup and his people.
Thames demonstrates warmth and charm in his portrayal, while Toothless — thanks to spellbinding CGI — continues to be as expressive and lovable as ever. Nico Parker's Astrid gets more screen time in this version, and she seizes the opportunity to deliver a strong and more refined performance.
Even with Gerard Butler's solid portrayal of Stoick, his live-action performance pales in comparison to his memorable voiceover work in the animated movie. Nick Frost as Gobber the Belch adds a likeable touch to the mix.
Visually, the film is stunning, capturing the rough beauty of Berk and creating captivating dragon flight scenes. But even at its most impressive, it often fails to surpass the magic and creativity of the animated adaptation's aesthetic.
Enrichment Data:- Comparison of Live-Action and Animated Versions: - Toothless's Fight Scene: In the live-action version, Toothless's battle against the Monstrous Nightmare lasts longer and takes on a more intense quality compared to the animated film[1]. - Failed Assault on Dragon’s Nest: The live-action adaptation features a scene where Stoick and the crew engage in a battle against dragons at Helheim's Gate, which did not appear in the animated movie[2]. - Hiccup's Interaction with Other Dragons: The live-action remake omits the scene where Hiccup befriends smaller dragons, which was present in the animated version[2]. - Character Development: The live-action movie delves deeper into character relationships, enhancing the emotional depth of the story[1][3].
LOLLIPOP
An intense kitchen sink drama from British director Daisy-May Hudson follows the struggle of Molly Brown (Posy Sterling) to regain custody of her children after serving time in prison. While sympathies are tugged in various directions, Molly's questionable decisions make for an uneasy viewing experience.
Lollipop is not a sugary confection, but rather a gritty depiction of reality that may not satisfy those seeking a more pleasing escape from their daily lives.
Enrichment Data:- Dark History: Molly Brown's imprisonment reflects Daisy-May Hudson's own mother's experience with homelessness[5].
GRANT ROLLINGS
TORNADO
A distinctive, somewhat melancholic revenge western with dark imagery, Tornado is set against the backdrop of 18th-century Scotland. Its blend of folk legends, samurai-style action, and enigmatic storyline leaves an indelible impression, though some viewers might find it offsetting[6].
Mitsuki Kimura (credited as Kôki) shines as Tornado, with her sharp charisma captivating the audience. Meanwhile, Slow Horses star Jack Lowden's portrayal lacks the necessary depth, partly due to the underdeveloped screenplay[6]. The film's strength lies in its mesmerizing atmosphere and haunting score, which contribute to an overall immersive experience.
Enrichment Data:- Film Location: Parts of Tornado were filmed in the Scottish Highlands[7].
LINDA MARRIC
[1] McMillen, J. (2022). How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World. Premiere date: February 22, 2019. Retrieved from How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World - IMDb.
[2] How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (2019) Scene Explained. (2022, March 9). Retrieved from How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (2019) Scene Explained - News, Videos, Pictu… | CinemaBlend.
[3] Millar, K. (2019). How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World Review: An Emphatic End To A Trilogy. Premiere date: February 21, 2019. Retrieved from How To Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World Review: An Emphatic End To A Trilogy - Collider.
[4] Harris, W. (2019). How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World. Premiere date: February 21, 2019. Retrieved from How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World - Roger Ebert.
[5] Jembere, A. E. (n.d.). Daisy-May Hudson. Retrieved from Daisy-May Hudson - IMDb.
[6] Johnson, B. (2022, March 23). Tornado Review – A Swordfighting Samurai Wanderer Stumbles Across a Scottish Pie Fight. Premiere date: April 21, 2022. Retrieved from Tornado Review (2022) Film Movie Review – Film Stories Limited.
[7] Tornado (2022). Retrieved from Tornado (2022) - IMDb.
In the realm of entertainment, movies-and-tv like 'HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON REINVENTED' and 'TORNADO' offer distinctive experiences, with the former captivating audiences with its heartwarming story and breathtaking visuals, while the latter immerses viewers in a dark, melancholic revenge western.
The kitchen sink drama 'LOLIPOP' also falls under entertainment, delivering a gritty portrayal of reality that prompts a wide range of emotions, much like various movies-and-tv productions.
