How to Train your Dragon

Actually saw this on a plane which probably isn't the best place because as well as being a good story it's lovely to look at. Another success from Dreamworks, that doesn't try too hard to fit the cliche of 'working on so many levels'The kids loved it, and I will admit to enjoying it more than I probably should have. Well paced, nicely voiced and beautifully 'drawn': recommended.

How to Train your Dragon is another brilliant animated film from Dreamworks. Set amongst a village of Vikings that is constantly battling against raids by dragons we are introduced to Hiccup, the son of the village leader. Unlike his peers, Hiccup is small framed, sensitive and judged to be unlikely to follow in his father's footsteps as a dragon slayer. Hiccup is inventive and handy with blacksmithing tools. He decides to prove to the village he can be great and fells a Night Fury dragon. The relationship that develops between the two is the main story here and the struggle to change the opinion of the village that the dragons are viscous deadly creatures only to be fought and killed.

The Night Fury dragon is fiercely cute with huge eyes. I dare you not to want one by the end of the film. The animation is great and the voice actors have all been cast well. Unlike many films where you can picture the big name actor behind the character, How to Train your Dragon has actors that have obviously developed their characters to help create a very visual and real universe in the Island of Berk.

A lovely film that has moments where you will struggle not to laugh out loud or reach for the tissues. The combination of stunning animation, great writing and clever casting brings together one of the films of the year. A perfect film for the young and young at heart. Don't miss this.