The How to Train Your Dragon series receives a fulfilling finale with The Hidden World, a sensational sequel that not only ties its saga back to the creation of legendary stories, but also features the best visuals DreamWorks Animation has ever produced.

As a defender and saviour of dragons, Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) foresees a heart-wrenching predicament when a ghastly hunter, Grimmel (F. Murray Abraham), is on the trail to abolish Night Furies.  Toothless, an obedient companion Hiccup has had since adolescence, is the last of its kind.  An option for Toothless’ refuge becomes available, however, when the dopey dragon meets (and becomes enamoured with) a rare Light Fury.  Despite Toothless’ safety though, the separation anxiety still haunts Hiccup as he also searches for “The Hidden World”, a sanctuary to protect his village and rescued dragons from Grimmel.

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World explores evolving companionships and difficult farewells;  themes that have been acknowledged in recent popular animated family films (Toy Story 3, Ralph Breaks the Internet).  However, this exciting chapter – written and directed by How to Train Your Dragon franchise frontman Dean DeBlois – is a standalone story from other examples because of its loyalty to the lore and characters created within this creative franchise.  While it’s message is clear and concise for audiences, DeBlois and company are still primarily concerned with world-building and developing a timeless fantasy – goals that have been smashed with How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World.

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Addison Wylie: @AddisonWylie