On CLIPS In April, 2010
HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON

Young Viking Hiccup (the voice of Jay Baruchel) befriends a wounded dragon in this animated adventure.

TRIVIA: What 2010 comedy feature also stars Jay Baruchel?

Young Viking warrior-in-training Hiccup (voiced by Jay Baruchel) befriends a wounded and feared Night Fury dragon who he names Toothless. The bond of understanding that develops helps the meek Hiccup gain respect from the villagers and their leader, his father Stoick (Gerard Butler). Together, they change the relationship between humans and dragons. "How To Train Your Dragon" is a heartfelt and involving animated adventure for all ages. The 3D is excellent, but not needed to enjoy the story. This can be credited to the good character development of directors Dean DeBlois and Chris Sanders. Besides the vocal sounds of Baruchel and Butler, Craig Ferguson lends his voice to Gobber, the dragon-slayer trainer. America Ferrera is Astrid, a tough Viking girl who takes a liking to Hiccup. Among the pupils eager to apply their slaying skills are Snotlout and Fishlegs with the voices of Jonah Hill and Christopher Mintz-Plasse. There is also an assortment of fearsome and cute beasts both large and small. If Toothless' face and mannerisms seem rather familiar, director Sanders borrowed from another one of his cartoon creations: Stitch ("Lilo & Stitch"). This makes the creature a little less frightening. But some of the battle scenes and attacks are frightening and may scare small children. While not on the same level as "Up", the slightly predictable "How To Train Your Dragon" is still a dragon tale to remember.