2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Washington Post
What parents need to know about ‘How to Train Your Dragon' and more
Age 9+
Intense dragon battles in soaring live-action remake.
This live-action remake is, like the 2010 animated film, based on the children's book by Cressida Cowell about a misfit Viking who befriends a special dragon. It's quite true to the original, with a similar storyline and lighthearted tone, and positive depictions of Vikings who've proudly lost appendages in battle and use prosthetic limbs. While there's little iffy content in the way of romance and language (other than 'hell'), the scare factor is definitely up a notch or two now that the dragons look real. Expect fire, fangs and ferocious behavior, with the Vikings navigating panic and peril when they feel under attack. Fierce men and women fight dragons hand to wing; things can get intense, but little injury actually occurs, and there's no blood. And since the Vikings are brave, their confidence in taking on the dragons may help quell kids' concerns. Young viewers will also enjoy rooting for our hero Hiccup (Mason Thames), a sensitive teen boy who uses critical thinking skills and ingenuity to discover a nonviolent way to bring peace to his village. (125 minutes)
