DreamWorks Animation’s How To Train Your Dragon proved that 3D technology can be put to remarkable artistic use. On the strength of that film, we have all been eagerly waiting to see if How To Train Your Dragon 2 can continue what its predecessor began and give us an animated film for the ages. With the full theatrical trailer finally hitting the web today, the answer seems to be a resounding yes.
How To Train Your Dragon 2 takes us back above the clouds with Viking Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) and his dragon Toothless. Now living in a world where Vikings and dragons live happily together, everything seems smooth flying for the duo…until they come across a secret ice cave and a whole host of new and unknown dragons. At the heart of it is the mysterious Dragon Rider (not so mysterious once you watch the trailer, though), and a new threat on the horizon. Can our heroes save the day? Will Hiccup finally get together with Astrid (America Ferrera)? Can Toothless get any cuter? We’ll have to wait for the film to find out.
The trailer showcases what was so impressive about the teaser that came out earlier this year: the truly beautiful animation. Even in 2D, the images provide a sense of exhilaration and excitement; you can practically feel the wind rushing by your ears. That in itself makes me want to see How To Train Your Dragon 2, but there’s also the charm of the original to be considered. DreamWorks does not appear to have skimped on plot and character development either, which is as much required in a 3D animated extravaganza as it is in a small indie film.
I can honestly say that I’m excited for How To Train Your Dragon 2, and I hope you are too. We have a little while to wait, as the film does not premiere until June 20, 2014, but you can whet your appetite with the trailer below. Enjoy.