How to Train Your Dragon

Definition

How to Train Your Dragon is a popular animated film franchise that began with the 2010 movie, based on the book series by Cressida Cowell. The franchise explores themes of friendship, bravery, and the bond between humans and dragons, using transmedia storytelling to create a rich narrative universe that includes sequels, television series, and merchandise. This interconnected storytelling approach allows audiences to engage with the characters and storylines across various platforms, enhancing their overall experience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The original How to Train Your Dragon film was released in 2010 and was both a critical and commercial success, leading to two sequels released in 2014 and 2019.
2. The franchise includes multiple spin-off television series such as 'DreamWorks Dragons,' which expands on the stories of Hiccup and Toothless.
3. Merchandise related to the franchise has generated significant revenue, including toys, clothing, and video games, contributing to its status as a successful animation franchise.
4. The animation style and visual effects in How to Train Your Dragon have been praised for their creativity and innovation, particularly in depicting dragon flight.
5. The themes of acceptance and understanding between different species resonate with audiences of all ages, making the franchise appealing across generations.

Review Questions

• How does How to Train Your Dragon exemplify transmedia storytelling within its franchise?
  • How to Train Your Dragon demonstrates transmedia storytelling by expanding its narrative universe across various media platforms. The initial film is complemented by sequels that continue the storyline while spin-off series like 'DreamWorks Dragons' provide deeper insights into characters and events. This interconnected approach allows fans to engage with the story in different formats, enhancing their understanding of the world and its themes of friendship and bravery.
• In what ways does the How to Train Your Dragon franchise utilize character development to create a compelling narrative across its various media?
  • Character development is central to the How to Train Your Dragon franchise's narrative. Through Hiccup's journey from an outsider to a leader who embraces his role in the dragon-human alliance, viewers see significant growth influenced by his relationships with dragons like Toothless. This evolution is explored in depth through the films and their spin-offs, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with the characters as they face challenges and discover their strengths.
• Evaluate the impact of How to Train Your Dragon on the animation industry in terms of storytelling techniques and audience engagement.
  • How to Train Your Dragon has made a notable impact on the animation industry by showcasing innovative storytelling techniques that blend humor, emotion, and adventure. Its success has influenced other animated works to adopt transmedia approaches for audience engagement. The franchise's ability to create deep connections between characters and viewers through various platforms has set a standard for how animated stories can resonate beyond just films, demonstrating that multi-faceted narratives can enhance audience loyalty and expand the lifespan of franchises.

Related terms

Transmedia Storytelling: A narrative technique that spreads a single story or experience across multiple media platforms, allowing for a richer and more immersive experience.

Franchise: A series of related products and media based around a particular story, characters, or brand, which can include films, TV shows, books, games, and more.

Spin-off: A new work derived from an existing franchise that focuses on a specific character or storyline from the original source.