Dean DeBlois revisits the world of Vikings and dragons with the live-action remake of "How to Train Your Dragon," and the result is a film that, while largely faithful to the beloved 2010 animated classic, sparks a debate about the necessity and impact of such a close adaptation. The film revisits the familiar story of Hiccup, the изобретательный but awkward son of Viking chief Stoick the Vast, who defies his tribe's dragon-slaying traditions by befriending an injured Night Fury he names Toothless. Their unlikely bond challenges the very foundations of Viking society and ultimately changes the relationship between humans and dragons.
The consensus among critics seems to be that this new "How to Train Your Dragon" doesn't necessarily surpass its animated predecessor, but it still manages to capture much of the original's charm and heart. Many highlight the film's faithfulness to the source material, praising DeBlois for delivering a respectful rendition that will likely please fans of the original. Some critics have even gone so far as to say that it may be better than the original. The return of John Powell to compose the music is also lauded, with his score helping the story take flight.
Mason Thames embodies Hiccup, portraying the character's inherent awkwardness and growing confidence effectively. Toothless, brought to life through CGI, remains an irresistible and endearing creature, and the bond between him and Hiccup continues to resonate emotionally. Gerard Butler reprises his role as Stoick, adding depth to the character's struggle to express his emotions. Nico Parker as Astrid gets more to do, adding value to her character.
However, the film also faces criticism for its lack of originality and its over-reliance on the source material. Some critics argue that the remake doesn't bring anything new to the table, functioning merely as a "carbon copy" of the original. The decision to hew so closely to the original script, while reassuring to some, leaves others feeling that the film misses an opportunity to explore new creative avenues. Some critics noted that the film felt tired and recycled. Others found the cast not up to the task of replacing the original ensemble.
The visual effects also receive mixed reviews. While some appreciate the detailed rendering of the dragons, others find the CGI unconvincing and the overall visual presentation lacking the magic of the animated film. Some critics point out that the digital effects do not impress and what is on screen looks flat, highlighting the artificiality of the background.
Ultimately, Dean DeBlois's "How to Train Your Dragon" is a film caught between honoring its beloved source material and forging its own identity. While its faithfulness to the original and strong performances will likely appeal to fans, its lack of innovation and occasionally underwhelming visuals leave something to be desired. It's a thoroughly enjoyable experience, but perhaps one that doesn't quite justify its existence. The film may entertain younger audiences and those who haven't seen the animated trilogy, but it is still another example of studios remaking animated classics into live action.
