The Film
Even with cash cows like the Shrek series and Kung Fu Panda, DreamWorks still struggles in the shadow of Disney-Pixar. After all, it's hard to compete with the likes of Frozen and the newest latest release, Big Hero 6. However, the studio's shining star has to be the How to Train Your Dragon franchise. It's smart, fun, action-packed, and writer/director Dean DeBlois definitely knows how to do a sequel.
Yes, it's hard to image that to imagine that the sequel could top 2010's wonderful first installment. However, How to Train Your Dragon 2 comes pretty darn close.
The action picks up where it left off, with the Hiccup (voiced by Jay Baruchel) fully integrating dragons into the Viking village of Berk. The two seem to be living in perfect harmony, until Hiccup discovers that Eret (Game of Thrones' Kit Harington) is trying to build a dragon army for the evil Drago (Djimon Hounsou).
Believe it or not, the dragon army isn't the big story here. Well, it is, but it's also a pretty big deal to find out that Hiccup's mom Valka (Cate Blanchett) is alive, well and running a dragon sanctuary. Needless to say, she's not exactly fond of Drago, either.
Like your typical Disney-Pixar movie, there's some serious sadness here. However, there are also wonderful characters, great action and even a little romance. How to Train Your Dragon 2 takes the franchise to new heights and will leave you wanting even more -- which is actually coming in 2017.
Not sure if you should fly out about buy this Blu-ray? Check out Chris Boylan's theatrical review of How to Train Your Dragon 2.
The Picture
As you would imagine, How to Train Your Dragon 2 has a gorgeous 2.35:1 image. It almost has a 3D quality to it, without any actual 3D effects. The color palette may not be as perky as most blockbuster cartoons, but it's exactly what it needs to be here. That said, the blues and lush greens are a standout. The most impressive part, however, is the film's stunning detail, from the ripples in the ocean and water bubbles to the wood on the boat and embers floating in the sky. The film's characters offer some of the sharpest detail. From the Vikings' fur, facial hair and Eret's biceps to Toothless' shiny wings and scaly, well... scales; this film is just as stunning as its predecessor, if not even more so.
The Sound
If you thought the image was a winner, wait until you hear the DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 track. It's equally as captivating, with great directionality, whether depicting action on the land or in the air. Fireballs, explosions, the roar of the ocean, the cries of dragons, flight and fight scenes are all immersive and will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
The only thing missing from the sound? Height information. This film was released theatrically in Dolby Atmos with an even more immersive soundtrack. It should be offered with Dolby Atmos on Blu-ray as well.
The Extras
Final Thoughts
This sequel isn't a cash-grab. How to Train Your Dragon 2 has a great story, great characters and plenty of action. The AV and the extras package help the film soar to even greater heights, making the Blu-ray a must-have for families and fans of the franchise.
Product Details
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