Dragon Training 101

By Felicia Schaefer

DreamWorks is at it again! How to Train Your Dragon is the new DreamWorks 3D animation movie based on the children’s book by British author Cressidia Cowell.

Set in the magical world of Vikings and dragons, the film takes on the coming of age of a teenage boy named Hiccup. It is a rite of passage for all Viking boys to slay a dragon, but things take a sharp turn when Hiccup befriends an injured dragon and challenges the clan’s ancient tradition.

With Gerard Butler as Stoik The Vast, the Chief of the Viking tribe, and comedian Craig Ferguson playing his best friend Gobbler The Belch, this movie has all the makings of a blockbuster.

Family Times was able to talk with the actors and get the behind-the-scenes scoop on this anticipated film.

FT: Why did you choose to be a part of this film?
GB: I have never done anything like this before. This is my first animation film. I had a chance to look at the storyboards and it looked like it would be so much fun. I also liked the fact that is has an overall appeal.

CF: When I heard I was going to play Gerry’s best pal I was in. I also liked the fact that it was acting without having to wear makeup.

FT: Why do you think they chose you to play Vikings?
GB: Because we are loud, big and burly Scotsman.

FT: Tell us a bit about the characters you play.
CF: Gerry gets the big role and I am his sidekick. Gerry plays Stoick, he is the chief of the tribe. He is very noble and says things that have great impact. I play Gobbler who heads the training program for the Vikings. I get to be funny and play Gerry’s little buddy.

FT: Was improvisation something that you did for this movie?
GB: I worked on the script a bit before hand with the directors. This gave me some input on the dialogue. Once I was in the studio I mostly stuck to the script.

CF: I did not stick to the script at all and that is why Gerry’s character is much more interesting than mine.

FT: What do you think kids will find most memorable about this film?
GB: It is a fun story with some lovely messages. The story is very touching and visually amazing.

FT: What do you think people will take from this film?
GB: To respect and have tolerance for the things that they are not familiar with. I think it teaches us to embrace difference.

CF: The dragon represents fear and if you can become familiar with your fear you can overcome it.

How to Train Your Dragon hits theatres March 26th. Check your local listings for show times. Check out the Freebies page to find out how to win tickets to the sneak preview at Great Clips Imax Theatre.

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