There was a very funny mock poster for Pixar’s Up around the time of the Oscars that said something along the lines of: “…Because SCREW YOU DreamWorks! We think this shit up in our sleep!” To be fair, that does carry some weight. Every single one of Pixar’s output (apart from, arguably, Cars) has elevated itself to being more than just kiddie entertainment and go on to masterpieces of the animated film. Wall.e, Ratatouille, the Toy Story’s, all of them have aimed higher than being mere popcorn fodder. None of DreamWorks’ back catalogue can even come close (NOTE: for those that still don’t know, I still have a vehement hatred towards all the Shrek films).
That, however, is not to say How to Train Your Dragon (HTTYD) is rubbish. It can happily stand beside Kung Fu Panda and Monsters vs. Aliens as being one of DreamWorks best films to date and whilst all three follow EXACTLY the same formula (protagonist, often social outcast, is thrust into situation way over their heads before coming through during the final act to prove their worth) there is much to admire, both in filmic prowess and really excellent animation.
The main plus point about HTTYD is just how fun it is. Whilst there is a formula here that it sticks rigidly to, it plays it for what it’s worth. The sentimental moments may be rammed fiercely down the audiences’ throat but it has freaking Dragons for crying out loud. This may be a family film, but there’s plenty of shit blowing up and the scenes of carnage, much like Kung Fu Panda, pull quite a violent and aggressive punch. And at least it wrings all your money’s worth from that 3D ticket. The scenes of flying are often breathtaking.
But my main problem, along with much of DreamWorks’ output, is not so much with the film as it is with the casting. I couldn’t tell who played Hiccup other than the fact that I know he has a minor role in Million Dollar Baby as the nerdy kid from Texas that everyone picks on. His voice is seriously irritating and I often wanted to punch the whiny little prick in the face. In fact, the only recognisable voice here is Gerard Butler who channels Viking might by way of King Leonidas to point where you half expect him to shout THESE! ARE! DRAGONS! at every available opportunity.
It just seems that the obviously starry cast is wasted. Much like Kung Fu Panda, and to a lesser extent, Monsters vs. Aliens, there is always one voice that is clearly distinguishable from the rest, whilst the other cast members are left at the wayside. Seriously, who know that Tigress was Angelina Jolie (KFP) or that Hugh Laurie was the mad bug/scientist thing (MvA)? Sans shouty Butler, I couldn’t give a rat’s ass who played who, you know why? Because it doesn’t matter. Pixar manage to get along just fine with casting the right voice for the role (point of fact, can you name any certifiable stars that did voices in Wall.e, Ratatouille or Up? Didn’t think so). DreamWorks think they can make up for their faults by packing their movies with bonafied poster boys (and girls).
But this clearly isn’t a criticism of the film and, for the most part, I really enjoyed it. It has a formula that it follows well, it’s predictable but likeable and the animation is stunning. Its leave your brain at the door stuff but not in the same way as, say, Clash of the Titans (yawn). I will be a firm follower of Pixar but, it seems, that DreamWorks are at least upping their games, even if they do still have a long way to go.
It loathes me, then, to say that their next film is Shrek: Forever After. Just stop it already.
4/5
(Sidenote: I want a Toothless. That Dragon is awesome.)
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