How to Train Your Dragon: A Fresh Perspective on a Beloved Tale

Like a blaze of glory, I am coming in hot with another movie review! This past week, I had the honor of pre-screening the live-action How to Train Your Dragon. 

I must admit, I had planned to watch the original before the screening, but a Muslimah has been busy creating her own Queendom and carving out her own path, much like Hiccup. Upon reflection, I am grateful that I watched the film with fresh eyes and experienced the movie for the first time. 

This new take on the beloved tale allowed me to discover the journey of Hiccup, a young Viking who, through his decision to befriend a wounded dragon, challenges the fear-driven traditions of his world. From the opening scene, it is easy to see that Hiccup has a different mindset from his fellow Vikings; he is a bit misunderstood. 

As a fellow misunderstood individual who loves to challenge the status quo, I enjoyed watching his journey to discover himself while still trying to be a part of his community. He always did what he needed to accomplish and found a way to do it efficiently, saving enough energy for his true pursuits, training a dragon. 

“Stop trying to be something you’re not.”

This film felt like a gentle push to keep going, and it’s best to keep your cards close to your chest until the grand reveal. Because not everyone can see the vision. Although I saw myself in Hiccup, in truth, I am more like Astrid. His overachieving crush, who never allowed herself to see past what she was taught until presented with a different perspective. 

You can draw many parallels between reality and the film; ultimately, everything is about perspective and taking a step back to view the world from a different perspective, one that challenges what has been taught. 

I wish there was clarity about what happened to Hiccup’s mother, but trust I can’t wait to watch the original to see if it answers any of my questions. I enjoyed watching the growth of the father-son relationship. I always aim to make my parents proud, but patience and tenacity are key because sometimes they’re too close to fully see the vision. Especially when it’s outside of their way of thinking. 

“Whatever happens up there, I’m proud to call you my son… That’s all I need.”

Now, before I fly off to find my dragon, I am officially a fan of How to Train Your Dragon, and I highly recommend everyone watch the film! It is released in theaters on June 13th, and it is a must-see! As a massive Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon fan, this film carries a similar energy but is also suitable for children to enjoy! Let me know what y’all think, and can’t wait to see everyone’s reactions! 

“The Reign of the Dragon”