How to Train Your Dragon

What’s it about?

A young and awkward Viking named Hiccup dreams of becoming a dragon hunter like the rest of his tribe. But when he unexpectantly befriends a wounded dragon, he discovers that these creatures might not be the monsters his people believe them to be.

The facts

• Directed by Dean DeBlois and Chris Sanders
• Starring Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, America Ferrera, Jonah Hill and Kristen Wiig. 
• English language
• Runtime: 98 minutes
• Received two Academy Award nominations

Why did it get this rating?

This film game was cross-rated by the Film and Video Labelling Body. You can find out more about cross-rating here.

Frightening fantasy scenes and violence

The film features several action scenes with Vikings fighting, riding dragons, and dodging attacks. However, the violence is not realistic, as it’s softened by the animated style and moments of humour. Examples include:

• The film opens with dragons attacking a village at night, with fire and explosions lighting up the dark sky — a dramatic and intense scene that may unsettle some viewers.
• A character tries to show how a cannon works, but it backfires and shoots an object out the window, hitting another character outside.
• A large, dark cave is shown where a massive dragon suddenly jumps out and eats another dragon. This could be frightening for younger viewers.

When content stays with you:

We all have our boundaries, and it’s completely okay if something you’ve watched is weighing on your mind. If certain content lingers with you, consider having a chat with friends or whānau to debrief about what you’ve just seen. But if you’re still feeling affected, please reach out to any of the following helplines for support.  

• 1737
• Safe to talk
• Lifeline
• Youthline

Further information

• Why are ratings and content warnings important for me and my whānau?
• Brain development – how it works, why it matters