When “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming” landed on our screens, it promised to whisk us back to the enchanting world of New Berk, a place where Vikings and dragons live in harmony. As a fan of the franchise, I was buzzing with excitement to see what adventures awaited Hiccup, Astrid, and their dragon companions.
This special not only revisits beloved characters but introduces us to their lives after the events of the trilogy’s conclusion. With a heartwarming narrative that explores themes of family, legacy, and friendship, it’s a must-watch for anyone who’s followed their journey from the start. Join me as I dive into why this homecoming is a celebration of everything that made the franchise so magical.
Movie Details
How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming is a 2019 animated short film that serves as the conclusion to the main trilogy.
When I first settled down to watch “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming,” I was brimming with anticipation. Having been a fan of the franchise for years, my expectations were sky-high. This special, a spin-off from the beloved series, clocks in at a modest 22 minutes. While this departure from the feature-length format of its predecessors caught me off guard, it offered a unique charm of its own.
The special serves as a bridge, filling in the gap between the trilogy’s close and our reunion with the characters of New Berk. Despite its short duration, it weaves a story of family, legacy, and friendship. The narrative explores the lives of Hiccup, Astrid, and their community, as they navigate the challenges and joys that come with cohabiting a world populated by dragons. The poignant moment when Hiccup and Astrid find a glowing crystal from the Hidden World in their home stands out. It symbolizes the enduring bond between humans and dragons, a theme central to the franchise.
The animation, while a topic of debate, still captures the essence of the series’ exquisite world-building. Some viewers might find the detail slightly lacking compared to the feature films. However, it’s important to remember that shorter formats often have different production constraints and objectives.
Voice performances remain strong, with Jay Baruchel reprising his role as Hiccup Haddock III, America Ferrera as Astrid Hofferson, Craig Ferguson as Gobber the Belch, and even a nod to Gerard Butler’s Stoick. Their familiarity breathes life into the characters, evoking a sense of nostalgia balanced with fresh storytelling.
Although it might not tick every box for every fan due to its length and slightly different focus, “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming” serves as a heartfelt homage to the series. It reminds us why we fell in love with the world of Vikings and dragons in the first place.
What’s the Story?
In my view, “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming” revisits the magical world created by Cressida Cowell, with a narrative penned by Jon Pollack that’s both heartwarming and evocative. Directed by Tim Johnson, the movie captures an essence that is undeniably enchanting. It unveils an eloquent exploration of the bonds that tether us to our past, our family, and the creatures that inhabit our world.
Set a few years after the trilogy’s conclusion, the special begins in the vibrant village of New Berk, a place that continues to redefine its relationship with dragons. Hiccup, now grown and with children of his own alongside Astrid, aims to keep the memory and legacy of dragons alive, especially for those who’ve never seen them up close. They devise a plan to stage a pageant for Snoggletog, a celebration that aims to recount the village’s history and its unique bond with the dragons. However, like any grand plan, theirs doesn’t go without hitches, leading to moments filled with comic relief and touching misunderstandings.
What drives this narrative forward isn’t just the allure of dragons or the spectacle of a village celebration; it’s the profound message of family and remembrance. When the pageant unfolds into chaos, it inadvertently sparks a newfound appreciation among the youth of New Berk for their history. This unexpected outcome paves the way for a beautiful closure as Hiccup and Astrid stumble upon signs that their dragon friends, though out of sight, are never far from heart. This realisation inspires a desire to bridge the gap between human and dragon once more, hinting at future adventures that lie in wait beyond the horizon of New Berk.
Throughout the special, the performances of Jay Baruchel as Hiccup and America Ferrera as Astrid stand out, lending a genuine feeling of continuity and growth to these beloved characters. Their voices, along with the rest of the cast, breathe life into this tale, reminding us of the depth of the world that Cowell created and Johnson, along with Pollack, have so vividly brought to screen again.
Cast & Crew
Exploring the backbone of “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming,” it’s imperative to highlight the stellar cast and crew behind its creation. At the helm as director, Tim Johnson brings his wealth of experience to the table. Notably, this isn’t Johnson’s first rodeo with the franchise, marking his involvement as a testament to his understanding of the series’ nuances. His direction ensures that the short film resonates well with fans and newcomers alike, effectively capturing the essence that made the franchise a beloved global phenomenon.
In terms of voice talent, Jay Baruchel returns as Hiccup, providing continuity and depth to the character we’ve grown to admire over the years. Baruchel’s performance remains as compelling as ever, adding layers to Hiccup that enrich the storyline further. Alongside him, the role of Astrid is reprised by America Ferrera, whose portrayal is nothing short of phenomenal. The chemistry between Baruchel and Ferrera’s characters continues to be a cornerstone of the film, driving home themes of love, friendship, and adventure that define the series.
The casting choices for “Homecoming” are reflective of the franchise’s commitment to maintaining consistency in its characters’ portrayals, allowing the audience to reconnect with their favourite characters seamlessly. The emotional depth conveyed through the voice performances elevates the narrative, making the journey back to the world of Berk a rewarding experience for viewers.
Behind the scenes, DreamWorks Animation ensures that the quality of animation and storytelling remains high, leveraging cutting-edge technology and creative storytelling to bring the dragon-filled world of Berk to life. The attention to detail in the animation enriches the viewing experience, highlighting the evolution of animation techniques since the franchise’s inception. The collaboration between talented animators and visionary directors under DreamWorks’ banner is pivotal in crafting a piece that stands out in the realm of animated short films.
The synergy between the cast and crew in “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming” is evident throughout the film, showcasing their dedication to honouring the legacy of the series while introducing elements that resonate with both old fans and new viewers.
Positive Elements
When I sat down to watch “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming,” I was immediately drawn into the familiar world of New Berk, albeit with a keen eye for the new details. The depth of the storyline, driven by the powerful themes of love, friendship, and the ever-lasting bond between humans and dragons, truly stands out. The essence of the original series is masterfully preserved, offering both longtime fans and newcomers a rich viewing experience.
Notably, the voice performances of Jay Baruchel and America Ferrera as Hiccup and Astrid, respectively, add a significant layer of continuity and emotional depth to the narrative. Their ability to convey complex emotions through their voice acting brings their characters to life in a way that’s both engaging and authentic. The chemistry between these characters, honed over years of collaboration, shines through, making their bond one of the film’s most compelling aspects.
Moreover, the animation quality by DreamWorks Animation is, as always, top-notch. The visuals are stunning, capturing the essence of the beloved dragon-filled world with a fresh vibrancy. One scene, in particular, that stands out is the discovery of the glowing crystal from the Hidden World, a moment filled with awe and wonder that beautifully symbolizes the connection between humans and dragons.
The film’s ability to weave in themes of adventure alongside a heartfelt storyline is a testament to the robust writing and direction. The New Berk community’s newfound appreciation for their dragon heritage highlights an important message about remembering and valuing our roots. This, coupled with the adventurous spirit of visiting Toothless in the Hidden World, speaks volumes about the enduring nature of friendship and family.
Negative Elements
While I’m an ardent fan of the “How to Train Your Dragon” series, fairness demands acknowledging some of the negative elements in “Homecoming”. First and foremost, the special’s pacing feels off at times. Unlike its predecessors, which seamlessly wove together heart-pounding action and tender moments, “Homecoming” sometimes rushes through its emotional beats. This brisk pace doesn’t always allow the emotional depth to fully sink in, which I found somewhat jarring compared to the series’ usual rhythm.
Another point of critique is the predictability of the storyline. Though the franchise is celebrated for its surprising twists and deep narratives, “Homecoming” leans towards a more predictable plot. The message about family and friendship, while beautifully presented, doesn’t break new ground. Fans who’ve been with Hiccup and Toothless from the beginning might find the special’s storyline a tad familiar, lacking the fresh excitement that the original movies and series consistently delivered.
Lastly, there’s a noticeable imbalance in character development. Given the short runtime, not every beloved character gets their moment to shine. While Hiccup and Astrid maintain their central roles, other fan favorites like Gobber and the dragon Toothless receive less attention than one might hope for. This special seems to focus more on delivering a heartwarming message than on fleshing out its ensemble cast, which can leave some viewers missing the rich character interactions characteristic of the franchise.
Despite these criticisms, it’s important to remember that “Homecoming” still carries the charm and warmth that fans have come to love. However, acknowledging these flaws is crucial for a balanced understanding of the special’s place within the broader “How to Train Your Dragon” saga.
Movie Review
When I sat down to watch “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming”, I was eagerly anticipating the continuation of Hiccup’s journey with Toothless. The movie, renowned for its heartwarming themes and captivating animation, did not disappoint. DreamWorks Animation has once again pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in the realm of animated storytelling, delivering a visual feast that is both stunning and emotionally charged.
The narrative dives deep into the nuanced relationship between humans and dragons, bringing to the fore the significance of understanding and empathy. Hiccup’s love for Toothless, though leading him into some questionable decisions, such as keeping secrets and contemplating running away, adds layers to his character that are both relatable and thought-provoking. This complexity enriches the movie, making it more than just a tale of adventure; it’s a story that mirrors the highs and lows of any profound friendship.
Notably, the cast’s performances, particularly Jay Baruchel as Hiccup and America Ferrera as Astrid, imbue the movie with a genuine sense of continuity and depth. Their ability to convey intricate emotions through their voices lends authenticity to their characters’ experiences, enhancing the overall impact of the film.
As for the animation quality, it’s nothing short of spectacular. Scenes showcasing the glowing crystal from the Hidden World and the ethereal beauty of Toothless and his family soaring through the skies are a testament to the skill and dedication of DreamWorks’ animators. These moments not only serve as visual highlights but also as crucial narrative elements that underscore the movie’s thematic focus on the enduring bond between humans and dragons.
While “Homecoming” shines in many areas, it’s not without its weaknesses. The pacing occasionally feels rushed, and certain plot points predictable, potentially undermining the emotional resonance of the story. Additionally, the short runtime means not all characters receive the development they deserve, leaving some beloved figures feeling somewhat sidelined.
Despite these critiques, the film’s underlying message about the importance of family, friendship, and mutual understanding remains powerful and relevant. As Hiccup and Astrid’s discovery of the glowing crystal and empty fishbowl leads to a poignant realization about keeping loved ones in their hearts, it’s a reminder that true connections transcend physical presence.
Conclusion
I’ve delved into the heart and soul of “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming,” highlighting its strengths and acknowledging its weaknesses. Despite the criticisms, it’s undeniable that the film captures the essence of what made the franchise so beloved. The animation dazzles, the themes of friendship and family shine through, and the performances breathe life into the characters we’ve grown to love. For fans and newcomers alike, this movie offers a magical experience that’s not to be missed. So if you’re looking to embark on this heartwarming adventure, you can find it available on various streaming platforms. Don’t miss out on the chance to witness Hiccup and Toothless’s enduring bond and the beautifully rendered world of dragons and Vikings. It’s a journey that promises to enchant and entertain, leaving you with a sense of warmth and nostalgia.
You can watch How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming on: Prime Video, Hulu, Apple TV, Google Play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming” a good sequel?
“How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming” is praised for continuing Hiccup and Toothless’s journey with heartwarming themes and captivating animation. The performances and visual quality are highlighted, although some criticisms include rushed pacing and predictable plot points. Overall, its powerful message about family and friendship is well-received.
Who voices Hiccup and Astrid in “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming”?
Jay Baruchel and America Ferrera lend their voices to Hiccup and Astrid, respectively, in “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming,” adding depth and continuity to the narrative through their performances.
How does “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming” explore the relationship between humans and dragons?
The film delves into the nuanced relationship between humans and dragons, focusing on themes of friendship, understanding, and mutual respect. It highlights the bond between Hiccup and Toothless amid challenges, emphasizing the importance of their connection.
Are there any new characters introduced in “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming”?
The article does not specify new characters but focuses on the existing dynamics and relationships among the beloved characters from the series. It mentions the continuation of the story rather than introducing new figures.
What is the main criticism of “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming”?
Main criticisms include the film’s rushed pacing, predictable plot points, and a perceived lack of character development for some secondary characters due to the short runtime. Despite these flaws, its message and visual appeal are highlighted positively.
