How to Train Your Dragon

"How to Train Your Dragon" is one of the brightest and most beloved animated films from DreamWorks in 2010, which started a whole franchise. On the island of Berk, Vikings have been fighting dragons for centuries, considering them their worst enemies. Young Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), the son of chief Stoick (Gerard Butler), is weak by the tribe's standards but a brilliant inventor who creates weapons for hunting. However, instead of killing, he accidentally injures a Night Fury — the rarest and most dangerous dragon — and instead of finishing it off, he begins to understand it. Thus, a friendship is born between Hiccup and Toothless, which changes everything: the Vikings learn that dragons are not villains but victims of circumstances, and Hiccup becomes a true hero, proving that strength lies not in weapons but in understanding and trust.

The film is full of dynamic flights, witty humor, and touching moments. America Ferrera as Astrid — a strong and independent girl who is initially Hiccup's rival but later becomes his ally. Craig Ferguson and Jonah Hill add comedic flair in their roles as friends. Directors Dean DeBlois and Chris Sanders created the perfect balance of action, emotion, and message: peace is possible even between sworn enemies if there is a desire to understand each other. The visuals — from dragon designs to flights over the ocean — still look stunning, and John Powell's soundtrack has become iconic.

If you are looking for an animated film that is suitable for both children and adults, this is a classic. It teaches not to fear the other, to value friendship, and to look deeper than stereotypes. A rating of 8.2 on Kinopoisk and 8.1 on IMDb is well-deserved. For whom: everyone who loves fantasy with heart, family stories, and dragon flights.