- What: How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World
- Who: Directed by Dean Deblois. Stars Jay Baruchel, America Ferrara, F. Murray Abraham, Cate Blanchett, Gerard Butler, Craig Ferguson, Johan Hill and Kristen Wiig.
- Rated PG
- Running time: 104 minutes
- When: Opened last Friday
- Where: Area theaters
- Rated: C+
The third time is not the charm for this second sequel of a beloved animated franchise.
The problem is that this charming story has run out of plot and basically has nowhere to go. Director, writer Dean Deblois tries mightily to whip up some dramatic tension. It’s just not there.
Our young Viking hero Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) is the ruler of the dragon-loving clan along with his girlfriend Astrid (America Ferrera). The village is set upon by a famous dragon killer (F. Murray Abraham). Hiccup and Astrid must lead their clan, along with their dragons Toothless and Light Fury to the Hidden World and safety.
There’s danger and laughter along the way but it’s easy lose sight of the plot in the middle of the movie. I found myself lost in thought and then snapped back to ask myself, "What are we doing here, and why?"
The animation is fantastic as usual. It almost looks like a live-action drama it’s so realistic, but the story is so thin it gets lost easily.
Not that your average 5 or 7-year-old is going to care. The movie screen is a feast for the eyes and there’s lots of acrobatic dragon stuff to keep the kids entertained. Maybe the best thing Dragon 3 has for adults is the opportunity for some shut-eye. Just try not to snore.
