How to Train Your Dragon

Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III is the awkward, inventive son of Viking chief Stoick, expected to prove himself by killing a dragon. When he finally brings down a feared Night Fury, he can't bring himself to kill it. Instead he secretly tends the wounded creature, slowly building a trust that undermines everything he has been taught about dragons. Hiccup's secret bond with the sleek, black dragon Toothless forces him to rethink bravery and cleverness, and it strains his relationships with peers and his stern father. The story follows Hiccup as he uses ingenuity and empathy to change how his community sees dragons, without revealing later plot surprises.

Released in 2010, the film was directed by Chris Sanders, with writing credits for Dean DeBlois, Stephan Franck and William Davies. The voice cast includes Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler and America Ferrera, and the animation balances sweeping aerial action with intimate character moments.

The film earned significant awards recognition, receiving nominations from major film organizations including the Academy Awards, along with praise from critics' groups and animation festivals. Its musical score, visual design and voice performances were frequently mentioned during awards season, helping to raise its profile among family films that year.

The design of Toothless and the movie's flying sequences quickly entered popular culture, spawning fan art, cosplay and extensive merchandising. Its sympathetic take on a feared creature influenced later portrayals of dragons in family media, and several scenes became widely referenced in animation showcases and online fandom.

Critics and audiences alike reacted positively, reflected in a vote average of 7.855 out of 10 from 13,973 votes. Reviews highlighted strong voice work, expressive animation and a warm emotional center. Major themes include empathy, questioning rigid traditions, personal growth and the tension between duty and individuality, anchored by a central father-son relationship.